What percentage of the US population is estimated to not engage in 30 minutes of low-to-moderate physical activity?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a significant percentage of the United States population does not meet the recommended amount of physical activity. Although the specific percentage may vary from year to year and among different data sources, it has been reported that more than 50% of adults do not get the recommended 30 minutes of low-to-moderate physical activity per day on most days of the week. For updated and specific figures, you can refer to the most recent National Health Interview Survey or the CDC's surveillance systems like the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS).

Physical activity is vital for maintaining good health, and it includes activities that get your body moving, such as walking, dancing, swimming, or biking. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity each week, which can be broken down into sessions of at least 10 minutes at a time—at least 30 minutes a day for 5 days a week. For those who prefer vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, the recommendation is at least 75 minutes per week.

Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for many diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and certain types of cancer. Encouraging children and adults to be more active can be a step towards improving the overall health of the population. Schools play a key role in promoting physical activity among students through physical education classes, recess, and extracurricular sports.