Promoting Physical Activity
Studies show that regular physical activity reduces the risk for depression, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, stroke, and certain kinds of cancer. Yet, the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines Advisory Committee 
notes that data from various national surveillance programs consistently show most adults and youth in the U.S. do not meet current physical activity recommendations, e.g., 45% to 50% of adults and 35.8% of high school students say they get the recommended amounts of moderate to vigorous physical activity.
How much physical activity is enough to impact health? The 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans provides science-based recommendations for population subgroups, including:
- Children and adolescents (age 6-17)
- Adults (age 18-64)
- Older adults (age 65 and older)
- People with disabilities
Community Guide Systematic Reviews
The Community Guide includes systematic reviews of interventions in the following areas:
- Page last reviewed: February 7, 2011
- Page last updated: January 20, 2011
- Content source: The Guide to Community Preventive Services
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The Guide to Clinical Preventive Services
Together, the Community Guide and the Clinical Guide provide evidence-based recommendations across the prevention spectrum.
Contact Us:
- Community Guide Branch
Epidemiology and Analysis Program Office (EAPO)
Office of Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Laboratory Services (OSELS)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1600 Clifton Road NE
Mailstop E-69
Atlanta, GA 30333 - Community Guide
