Physical Activity

Information and resources for patients

It’s easy and fun to sneak some extra activity into every day, whether at home, work, or school – every extra step counts!

American Academy of Family Physicians
Become more aware of your physical activity and eating habits by keeping a food and activity journal.

American College of Sports Medicine – Exercise is Medicine
This national initiative, managed by the American College of Sports Medicine, offers fact sheets on a wide range of issues, including the benefits and cautions of exercising with various diseases and health conditions, selecting and using equipment, trainers, and facilities, sports issues, and other health and fitness concerns.

National Physical Activity Plan
The Plan is a comprehensive set of policies, programs, and initiatives that aim to increase physical activity in all segments of the American population. Hundreds of organizations, including the AMA, are working together to change our communities in ways that will enable every American to be sufficiently physically active.

Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans
Learn how much and what type of physical activity is best for you – from the US Department of Health and Human Services.

Shape Up America!
Assess your readiness for physical activity, as well as your current activity level and fitness status. Plus, learn how to incorporate more activity into your daily life and overcome common barriers to fitness.

The President's Challenge
The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports developed this series of programs for people of all ages and abilities.  Identify realistic goals, track your progress online with a personal activity log, and receive awards for reaching your goals.

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
An excellent source of information on the benefits and risks of exercise, the amount of physical activity that is right for you, ways to add physical activity to your life, how to measure the intensity of your physical activity, and much more.