Physical Activity

Physical activity is simply any movement of the body that causes an exertion of energy. Physical activity can be done in a number of ways. Many common activities such as walking or gardening, climbing the stairs at work, or doing household chores are all forms of moderate physical activity. More vigorous physical activity includes soccer, basketball, aerobic swimming, running, or even dancing the night away with friends. Learn more about the types of moderate and vigorous physical activity you can participate in. There are many types of beneficial physical activity appropriate for different ages.

• Physical Activity Facts
• Benefits of Physical Activity

Physical Activity in Alabama

• Alabama BRFSS Physical Activity Prevalence and Trends Data
• The 2014 CDC State Indicator Report on Physical Activity
• Physical Inactivity by State

Get Moving Alabama

Get Moving Alabama encourages you to get moving for your wellbeing! Learn how to get moving and improve your health and quality of life.

• Get Moving Handout (Large)
• Get Moving Handout (Small)
• Get Moving Handout (Youth)
• Get Moving Handout (Youth 11x17)

Resources for Physical Activity

• Tips for Getting More Active Minutes
• Active People Healthy Nation
• Healthy Activity for Everyone Video Series
• Stay Active All Year

Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans

The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans is a guide for health professionals and policy leaders that provides recommendations on improving health through physical activity.

• 2016 National Physical Activity Plan

Get Out and Active in Alabama

• Alabama Hiking Trail Society
• Alabama State Parks
• Birmingham Bicycle Club
• Birmingham Track Club
• Fishing at Alabama Public Lakes (2 MB)
• The Montgomery Bike Club
• Outdoor Alabama
• River Region Runners Montgomery
• 100 Alabama Miles Challenge

Physical Activity Strategies in the Community

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released a report providing recommendations for physical activity for children and adults based on research findings and evidence for health benefits from physical activity.

• The CDC Guide to Strategies for Increasing Physical Activity in the Community

State Report Cards on Active Kids and Communities

A report out from the Safe Routes to School National Partnership and the Y, Making Strides: 2024 State Report Cards on Support for Walking, Bicycling, and Active Kids and Communities, analyzes state policy in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia to provide a snapshot of each state’s support for walking, biking, and physical activity.

• See Alabama's 2018 Report Card

Alabama State Collaborative Workshop on Walkable Communities

In 2017 the Alabama State Collaborative Workshop on Walkable Communities brought together state and local leaders and private sector stakeholders to discuss strategies to increase walking and create more walkable communities. Recommendations were developed by the group and the Final Report outlines the steps needed to accomplish the recommendations.

• Final Report and Recommendations

Visit Healthy Lifestyle Tips for more resources to incorporate healthy choices into your daily life.