Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans
Science-based guidance to help Americans aged 6 and older. Improve their health through appropriate physical activity. Developed with health professionals and policymakers in mind, the guidelines can help you.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issues the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. The content of the physical activity guidelines complements the dietary guidelines for Americans, a joint effort of HHS and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Together, the two documents provide guidance on the importance of being physically active and eating a healthy diet to promote good health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
The primary audiences for the Physical Activity Guidelines are policymakers and health professionals. These guidelines are designed to provide information and guidance on the types and amounts of physical activity that provide substantial health benefits.
This information may also be useful to interested members of the public. The main idea behind the guidelines is that regular physical activity over months and years can produce long-term health benefits. Realizing these health benefits requires physical activity each week.
Learn about the health benefits of physical activity
- Understand how to do physical activity in a manner that meets the guidelines
- Understand how to reduce the risks of activity-related injury
- Assist others in participating regularly in physical activity
