For National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, Apolo Ohno wanted to get a quick message out to the Ask, Listen, Learn Team:
Exercise and physical activity strengthen the mind and body while helping you to maintain good health and can even help prevent injury and disease. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) children need at least 60 minutes of exercise each day and adults need at least 30 minutes of exercise each day.
The most important step is to make physical activity fun! Not everyone has a speed skating rink in their town, but you can choose any activity you enjoy whether it is walking or running, biking, swimming, or playing on a soccer or basketball team with your friends. No matter what activity you pick, remember the most important thing is to make regular physical activity part of your healthy lifestyle.
As an athlete, I know firsthand how competition can accentuate the energy and excitement that physical activity adds to a person's life. That is why I want to take this opportunity to challenge you to get active and fit not just this month but for life. No matter what your age, background, or ability, everyone can add some regular exercise or physical activity into their daily lives to improve their mental and well-being. To learn more about saying “yes” to a healthy lifestyle and “no” to underage drinking and how other top athletes stay fit, visit www.asklistenlearn.com and commit to making healthy choices that will help you live a happy and long life.