CDC Ranks Physical Fitness throughout the U.S.: Not All States Make the Cut

Some states are more physically active than others. The State Indicator Report on Physical Activity for 2014 that's released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that activity levels vary greatly throughout the country.

"People who are physically active generally live longer and have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, and some cancers. Physical activity can also help control weight. However, only about half of adults and less than a third of youth meet aerobic physical activity guidelines," the authors wrote, in a news release. "To improve physical activity behaviors among residents, state health departments, other state and local government agencies, and their partners can work together to implement the Community Preventive Services Task Force's recommended environmental and policy strategies for increasing physical activity."

For the report, officials examined several adult behavior health indicators ranging from no leisure time physical activity, 150 minutes of aerobic activity, 300 minutes of aerobic activity, and muscle strengthening exercises over the course of one week.

For those states that didn't quite make the cut, the CDC recommends three major methods to help out. First off, residents need to have easy access to safe places where they can exercise. For many, a public park would be a perfect example. Secondly, programs should be more focused on improving physical education and activity in children. Lastly, states that are lagging behind should work on new policies that are aimed to improve street and community designs that encourage physical activity. 

Furthermore, health officials stressed that once indivduals got into an active routine, the key is, quite simply, staying active. However, a healthy diet combined with a regular workout routine is easier said than done. 

More information regarding the report can be found here.