EXERCISE

Physical exercise is a key factor in maintaining overall health and preventing chronic diseases. However, data from 2007 to 2017 show that exercise behavior in the general population remained relatively unchanged.

Educational attainment is strongly associated with higher rates of exercise, suggesting that increased awareness and access to resources may promote physical activity. While income is also positively correlated with exercise, this association is weaker compared to education. Black Americans and upper middle-aged Hispanic individuals showed a significant increase in exercise rates from 2007 to 2017. These patterns highlight the complex interrelationship between socioeconomic factors, demographic characteristics, and health behaviors, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to promote physical activity across diverse populations.



Percent of Americans Meeting Exercise Guidelines

Definition:
Individual engagement in moderate to vigorous-intensity physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week. Includes walking/biking for transport and physical activity during sports, fitness, and recreational activities but does NOT include work-related physical activity

Example:
People’s report of moderate and vigorous activity for work is not factored into this metric of recreational exercise activity.