Position Statement

The Need for Daily Physical Activity

This Position Statement was developed as an educational tool based on the opinion of the authors. It is not a product of a systematic review. Readers are encouraged to consider the information presented and reach their own conclusions.

Medical research has proven that people can substantially improve their health and quality of life with moderate physical activity. However, 25 percent of American adults report they don't engage in any physical activity in their leisure time and 60 percent don't engage in vigorous activity. This is a problem of national concern because of the aging population and evidence that adults exercise less as they get older. By the year 2030, one in five people will be 65 or older and 12 percent of the elderly will be 85 or older.

Some people may not exercise because they don't like vigorous activity, don't have the time or are worried that it will aggravate a medical condition. However, researchers have found that moderate physical activity at least 30 minutes a day will provide significant health benefits. Even people with chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, can improve their health and quality of life with regular, moderate amounts of physical activity.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Geriatrics Society recommend that adults engage in moderate physical activity at least 30 minutes a day on a regular basis.

Regular physical activity slows the loss of muscle mass, strengthens bones and reduces joint and muscle pain. Physical activity also improves mobility, balance and sleep. These factors all reduce the risk of falling and sustaining a serious injury such as a hip fracture.

Physical activity is safe and beneficial for people with arthritis, high blood pressure, osteoporosis and other chronic conditions. In fact, the lack of activity can make the condition worse or, at least, make it difficult to live with.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and American Geriatrics Society recommend that adults engage in a variety of daily activities to ensure continued interest and participation.

While some people may enjoy participating in a regularly-scheduled exercise class, other adults can achieve healthful benefits from daily activities such as brisk walking, bicycle riding, swimming, dancing, housework and gardening.

Adults are encouraged to do different physical activities on different days, and even in short intervals of 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes in the afternoon. The healthful benefits of physical activity are cumulative, however, the benefits diminish quickly when physical activity ceases.

© February 1997 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

This material may not be modified without the express written permission of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons®.

Position Statement 1138

For additional information, contact Public Education and Media Relations Department at 847-384-4031.