Physical_Activity_Guidelines

Community Design
These interventions design the built environment of communities in ways that make it easier for people to
be active, particularly for transportation. This includes locating destinations such as schools, stores, or public
transportation near homes or workplaces so that people can easily walk, bike, or wheelchair walk there. It
includes making routes to these places more accommodating for walkers, bicyclists, or wheelchair users by
making them safer and more seamlessly connected. For example, sidewalks and paths can be added and
kept well maintained and well lit, streets can be designed to reduce speeds or separate bicyclists from motor
vehicles, and street networks can have shorter blocks and more intersections with crosswalks or traffic signals.
Everyone Has a Role to Play
to Increase Physical Activity
Everyone has a role to play to increase physical activity levels
of Americans. Individuals can take steps to increase their own
physical activity. Families and caregivers can help youth be
active. Community groups, such as faith groups, businesses,
civic organizations, parent-teacher associations, health
groups, and public safety agencies, can provide opportunities
and encouragement for physical activity. This section
illustrates ways that individuals, families and caregivers, and
community groups can take action to make physical activity
safe, easy, and enjoyable.
What Can Individuals Do to Get Enough
Physical Activity?
Individuals can take a variety of steps to adopt an active lifestyle.
Personalize the Benefits of Regular Physical Activity
Adults need to identify benefits of personal value to them. For some people, the health benefits, which are the
focus of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, are compelling enough to motivate them to be active.
For others, different reasons are key motivators to be active. For example, physical activity:
• Provides opportunities to enjoy recreational activities, often in a social setting;
• Improves personal appearance and feelings of energy and well-being;
• Provides a chance to help a family member or friend be active; and
• Gives older adults a greater opportunity to live independently in the community.
Set Personal Goals for Physical Activity
Individuals should set goals for activity that allow them to achieve the benefits they value. In setting goals,
people can consider doing a variety of activities and try both indoor and outdoor activities. Simple goals are
fine. For example, a brisk walk in the neighborhood with friends for 45 minutes on 3 days a week and walking
to lunch twice a week may be just the right approach for someone who wants to increase both physical activity
98 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans