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.

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
• Alabama BRFSS Physical Activity Prevalence and Trends Data

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

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released a report providing state-level information on physical activity behaviors and on environmental and policy strategies in place that encourage physical activity for children and adults.

• The CDC State Indicator Report on Physical Activity

United States National Physical Activity Plan

A coalition of national organizations is promoting physical activity in the U.S. through a comprehensive, evidence-based strategic plan. The inclusive plan aims to foster a culture that supports physically active lifestyles to improve health, prevent disease and disability, and enhance quality of life.

• National Physical Activity Plan

2018 State Report Cards on Active Kids and Communities

A new report out from the Safe Routes to School National Partnership and the Y, Making Strides: 2018 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. The report cards look at 27 indicators of support across four key areas: Complete Streets and Active Transportation, Safe Routes to School and Active Transportation Funding, Active Neighborhoods and Schools, and State Physical Activity Planning and Support.

• See Alabama's 2018 Report Card

Alabama State Collaborative Workshop on Walkable Communities

The State Obesity Task Force supports efforts to increase walking in Alabama as a way to improve physical activity levels. In the summer of 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
• Presentations (June 2017)

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