
For pregnant women, physical activity reduces the risk of postpartum depression.*.For older adults, physical activity also lowers the risk of falls and injuries from falls.*.For adults, physical activity helps prevent 8 types of cancer ( bladder,* breast, colon, endometrium,* esophagus,* kidney,* stomach,* and lung*) reduces the risk of dementia* (including Alzheimer’s disease*), all-cause mortality, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and depression and improves bone health, physical function, and quality of life.It can also reduce the risk of depression. For youth, physical activity can help improve cognition,* bone health, fitness, and heart health.We now know that meeting the recommendations in the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans consistently over time can lead to even more long-term health benefits.For example, physical activity can reduce anxiety and blood pressure and improve quality of sleep and insulin sensitivity.


Each day, youth ages 6 through 17 need at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity to attain the most health benefits from physical activity. The recommended amount of physical activity for youth ages 6 through 17 is the same.Adults caring for children this age should encourage active play (light, moderate, or vigorous intensity) and aim for at least 3 hours per day.

The new key guidelines for children ages 3 through 5 state that preschool-aged children should be active throughout the day to enhance growth and development.There are new key guidelines for children ages 3 through 5 and updated guidelines for youth ages 6 through 17, adults, older adults, women during pregnancy and the postpartum period, adults with chronic health conditions, and adults with disabilities. The second edition of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans provides evidence-based recommendations for adults and youth ages 3 through 17 to safely get the physical activity they need to stay healthy.
