In 2003, one-third of adults 18 years of age and over engaged in regular leisure-time physical activity.
Between 1971–74 and 1999–2000, the average energy intake in kilocalories (Kcals) increased 7 percent among men 20–74 years of age and almost 22 percent among women 20–74 years.
The prevalence of overweight and obesity among adults 20–74 years of age increased from 47 percent in 1976–80 to 65 percent in 1999–2002. During this period the prevalence of obesity among adults 20–74 years of age doubled from 15 to 31 percent (percents are age adjusted).
Between 1976–80 and 1999–2002 the prevalence of overweight among children 6–11 years of age more than doubled from 7 to 16 percent and the prevalence of overweight among adolescents 12–19 years of age more than tripled from 5 to 16 percent .
Most diseases result from a complex interaction between inherited risk factors and environmental risk factors such as diet, lifestyle, and social factors
(1). Adopting a healthy lifestyle, which includes being physically active, eating nutritiously, and avoiding tobacco, can prevent or help to control many diseases. Benefits of regular physical activity include a reduced risk of premature mortality and reduced risks of coronary heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, hypertension, and osteoporosis. Regular physical activity also improves symptoms associated with musculoskeletal conditions and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. In addition physical activity can enhance physical functioning and aid in weight control
(2). Physical activity, along with a healthy diet, plays an important role in the prevention of overweight and obesity. Monitoring levels of regular physical activity is of particular concern due to the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity in the United States. Although vigorous physical activity produces the greatest cardiovascular benefits, moderate amounts of physical activity are also associated with lower levels of mortality. Among older persons, even small amounts of physical activity may improve cardiovascular functioning
(3). National recommendations for physical activity encourage all Americans to engage in regular physical activity and reduce sedentary activities to promote health, psychological well-being, and a healthy body weight. Current 2005 recommendations are for adolescents to engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity and for adults to engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week. Additional recommendations target older age groups and weight loss or weight maintenance goals (4).