Walking and bicycling to school enables children to incorporate the regular physical activity they need each day while also forming healthy habits that can last a lifetime. Regular physical activity helps children build strong bones, muscles and joints, and it decreases the risk of obesity. In contrast, insufficient physical activity can contribute to chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer and stroke.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that children and adolescents get one hour or more of physical activity each day. Research suggests that physically active kids are more likely to become healthy, physically active adults, underscoring the importance of developing the habit of regular physical activity early.
See the following resources for additional information:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—Physical Activity and Health
Read about the benefits of physical activity.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—Physical Activity Statistics
Find physical activity statistics for states and metropolitan regions.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—How much physical activity do you need?
Learn about physical activity and guidelines for children and adults.
- Let’s Move—Physical Activity
Read facts on physical activity and find promotional ideas for families, schools and communities.