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Get Moving with PCFSN for National Physical Fitness and Sports MonthCollage of people doing fitness activities

Learn more about other observances this May:

  • National Physical Education and Sport Week Exit Disclaimer (May 1-7): This week encourages teachers and their students to showcase the quality sports and physical education in their schools and communities.
  • National Women's Health Week (May 13-19): This year's theme, "It's Your Time," reminds women to make health a top priority by improving physical and mental health and lowering risk of certain diseases.
  • Older Americans Month Exit Disclaimer: Since 1963, May has also been recognized as Older Americans Month. Help celebrate the contributions and achievements of older Americans and remind the nation that older Americans are "Never Too Old to Play."
  • Employee Health and Fitness Month Exit Disclaimer: In May, the National Association for Health and Fitness and ACTIVE Life promote the benefits of a healthy lifestyle for employers and employees alike. Learn how businesses can support an active and healthy office.
  • National Bike Month Exit Disclaimer: National Bike Month promotes the power of the bicycle and the many reasons people ride – from health and the environment to transportation and money. Observances during the month include Bike to School Day and Bike to Work Day.
  • Exercise is Medicine Month Exit Disclaimer: Sponsored by the American College of Sports Medicine, Exercise is Medicine Month is a time for healthcare providers, fitness professionals, supporting organizations, and the pubic to recognize, emphasize, and celebrate the valuable health benefits of exercise.

Let's use the month of May to promote the value of physical activity in our pursuit of a happier, healthier, and more productive nation. Being physically active is one of the most important steps that Americans of all ages can take to improve their health.

According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, children and adolescents should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily, while recommendations for adults are 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week.

Our Council members – including athletes, chefs, physicians, fitness professionals, and educators – share their tips for getting moving and meeting the recommended amount of activity:

  • "Have a clear goal in mind – whether it is being active a certain amount of time each week or attending a set number of fitness classes. Committing to a program like PALA+ [LINK TO: http://fitness.gov/presidents-challenge/presidential-active-lifestyle-award/], which focuses on both physical activity and good nutrition, will help you track your goals." –Cornell McClellan
  • "Find little pockets of time throughout the day to exercise. During your lunch hour, instead of sitting at your desk, go for a walk. After dinner, go for a walk or interact with your family in some type of physical activity. It's good for you physically, good for you emotionally, and it gives you time to bond." –Dominique Dawes
  • "Pick up a racket and play tennis in your public park or recreation area." –Billie Jean King
  • "No one has time to work out. Going for a run, playing ball with kids, walking the dog – little things like that add up over the year." –Michelle Kwan

Inspired by the words of our Council members? Sign up today to earn your PALA+ Exit Disclaimer and make physical activity and good nutrition part of your daily routine. It's easier than you think! PALA+ combines daily physical activity goals (30 minutes per day for adults and 60 minutes per day for children) with healthy eating goals. Stay accountable by tracking your physical activity and nutrition goals on a printable form (also available in Spanish) or online Exit Disclaimer.

May 1, 2012: Annual Council Member Meeting

Can't make it to the nation's capital for our annual Council member meeting on Tuesday, May 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. EST? We have you covered with a live Webcast of the event so you can watch and listen to every minute. Highlights include updates on PCFSN, Let's Move!, and Joining Forces from PCFSN Executive Director Shellie Pfohl, White House chef Sam Kass, and Council member Cornell McClellan; a tribute to fitness pioneer Bonnie Prudden; the presentation of our Lifetime Achievement Award to five honorees; and a Council member roundtable discussion featuring PCFSN co-chairs Drew Brees, Dominique Dawes, and their fellow Council members.

National Physical Fitness and Sports Month Toolkit

Help us get the word out about National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. This toolkit provides sample announcements, tweets, and Web badges; tips for getting involved; and additional tools for physical activity and personal health.