Kentucky Physical Activity Program

The Kentucky Physical Activity Program is part of the state Department for Public Health, Health Promotions Branch. This program promotes physical activity for all Kentuckians and helps local health departments address community physical activity needs.

Everyone can benefit from regular physical activity. Regular, moderately intense physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.

Some of the benefits of physical activity include:

• better physical and mental health
• improved quality of life
• increased energy levels
• fewer aches and pains
• weight maintenance
• stronger muscles and bones

For additional information about adding physical activity to your life, visit any of the following websites:

Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans

Healthy Aging Activities - State of Arkansas

Physical Activity for Everyone - Centers for Disease Control

Fit Louisville

Partnership for a Fit Kentucky

Action for Healthy Kids

Healthier U.S.

Partnership for a Walkable America

Active Living for Life

The guidelines offer specific recommendations for adults, older adults, children and adolescents, as well as people with special considerations. Science shows that for important health benefits, most adults need at a minimum:

• 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) each week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (such as brisk walking); OR
• 75 minutes (1 hour and 15 minutes) each week of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity (such as jogging or running); OR
• an equivalent mix of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activity.

Activity should preferably be spread throughout the week, and done for at least 10 minutes at a time. In addition, all adults need muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days each week that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms).

For additional health benefits, adults should work up to 300 minutes (5 hours) each week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Or, 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) each week of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity. Or, an equivalent mix of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activity. Physical activity beyond this amount may provide additional benefits.

Regular physical activity is associated with a healthier lifestyle. Community-wide campaigns are effective ways to increase physical activity among community residents. Community-wide campaigns have resulted in increases of as much as 5 percent in the rate of residents who make physical activity part of their daily lives.

For information about increasing your community's level of physical activity, visit any of these websites:

The Community Guide - Physical Activity

Healthy People in Healthy Communities

Effective Population-Level Strategies to Promote Physical Activity

Physical Activity Resources for Health Professionals

Healthy People 2010 Toolkit

Healthy Kentuckians 2010

Partnership for a Fit Kentucky