Physical Activity Resource Guide After having read the websites cited in the introduction and read your peers posts develop an out of the box physical activity resource guide (brochure). Imagine that
The importance of physical activity has been spotlighted by its selection as one of the Healthy People 2020 goals, specifically to improve health, fitness, and quality of life through daily physical activity. The Healthy People 2020 campaign has identified that, “More than 80 percent of adults do not meet the guidelines for both aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.” Retrieved from Healthy People 2020 http://healthypeople.gov/2020.
Begin this week’s activities by viewing the Healthy People 2020 website at http://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives/topic/physical-activity. Review the material on the overview, objective, and national snapshot tabs on this webpage. Select and review at least 1 of the consumer information resources on the interventions and resources tabs. Consider: What is my level of physical activity? How does it impact how I function at work, in school, and in the community? When my patients look at me what do they see? Am I a role model for physical activity and health? Consider the impact on your credibility as a patient educator.
We have all “heard” it before. Physical activity is good for us. It reduces the risk of and mitigates against the effects of chronic illness. It improves mood by stimulating the release of the body’s natural antidepressants-endorphins. It helps relieve stress and it helps us maintain a healthy body weight. It helps maintain our strength and stamina. Take a moment to reflect: Do you do more than just “hear it”? What effects have your level of physical activity had on your life? Your career? Your family and social relationships?
Consider this week’s module an opportunity for deeper reflection, self-assessment and personal and professional renewal. The Centers for Disease Control website http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/index.html offers readings, educational videos, tools and strategies for improving and enhancing personal, family, workplace and community physical activity. Conduct a comprehensive review of each of the sections. Prior to completing your review turn your attention to the state physical activity indicator report for 2014 and the Individual States Action Guides on the resources and publications tab. These reports will provide community wide assessment updates and information.
Additional Resources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2015). Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity Physical Activity Index. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2015). Physical activity and health: A Report of the Surgeon General. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
Healthy People 2020. (2015). Physical activity overview. U.S Department of Health & Human Services.
National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NIH). (2013). How much physical activity should your family get? U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2015). Step It Up! The Surgeon General’s call to action to promote walking and walkable communities. Washington, DC.
The assignments and learning activities in this module require a mindful self-assessment and the ability to apply creativity and innovation toward goal achievement.
