Guidelines

Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans offer guidance for everyone to make physical activity a part of their regular routine. The guidelines are based on the latest science and take into consideration different stages of life.

Physical Activity for Children and Adolescents

  • Improves health now
  • Lowers risk of chronic disease
  • Children become healthy adults
  • Get 60 minutes or more daily physical activity
    • Aerobic activity, such as running, dancing, and biking and they need vigorous-intensity activity at least 3 days a week
    • Muscle strengthening such as climbing trees, using playground equipment, and lifting weights develops muscle strength
    • Strengthen bones by running and jumping rope
    • Variety is key for enjoyment!

Physical Activity for Adults

  • Reduce risks of chronic diseases
  • Less than one half of Kansas adults meet minimum recommendations for physical activity
  • Do aerobic activity – stimulate your heart rate and breathing rate. Set a goal for at least 150 minutes per week
  • Increase the amount of activity to 5 hours of moderate intensity
  • Add strengthening exercises, such as lifting weights or using resistance bands, on 2 or more days each week

Physical Activity for Older Adults

  • Adults 65+ are typically the least physically active of any age group
  • Adults 65+ with no limiting chronic conditions and are basically fit should follow the same guidelines as those mentioned above for all adults.
  • Those with chronic health conditions, and cannot do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week, should be as active as abilities and conditions allow.
  • Exercises that maintain and improve balance minimize risks of falling
  • Consult a health care professional before starting or increasing any exercise routine.

Some local K-State Research and Extension offices are offering a class designed to increase strength and improve balance in older adults called Stay Strong, Stay Healthy.

Celebrating Success!

Our team is made up of six friends, three in their 70's and three in their 80's. One of our members has MS. We feel one of the reasons we enjoy life so much is that exercise and good nutrition are a part of our life. WE are looking forward to next year, we hope we have the same team.

Marge

"We've got to keep moving! It makes everything easier." - Marge Neely