Purdue experts available to discuss new CDC report on Americans’ physical inactivity

Consultants and trainers work with people at the Ismail Center in Lyles-Porter Hall. (Purdue University photo) Download image

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Americans, and Indiana residents in particular, are not getting enough exercise, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The new numbers from the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics show that only 23 percent of American adults meet the federal government guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities. It is much worse in Indiana. Only 15 percent of Hoosiers meet the requirements, which ranks 47th nationally.

Tim Gavin, a Purdue exercise physiology professor, says the numbers show a country in crisis when it comes to physical fitness.

“Meeting recommended levels of exercise is a proven, cost-effective way to prevent many chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer,” said Gavin, head of the Department of Health and Kinesiology. “This public health crisis can only be overcome through concerted efforts focused on increasing physical activity in our communities.”

Cassandra Ledman, a clinical assistant professor, expresses concern for those on the low end of the exercise spectrum.

“We are doing ourselves and our community a disservice if we settle for 77 percent of our nation not getting enough physical activity and 24 percent not getting any,” she said. “Moving more and moving often is essential for a longer more fulfilling life.”

Gavin, Ledman and other Purdue health and kinesiology experts are available to discuss Americans and exercise. They can talk about:

• Benefits of physical activity.

• Adverse effects of physical inactivity.

• Setting up a fitness regimen.

• Ways to promote physical activity in communities.

While 23 percent surpass the Department of Health and Human Services target goal, 45 percent of Americans reach neither the 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week goal nor the goal of at least two days of muscle strengthening per week.

A link to the CDC report is available here. 

Writer: Tim Doty, 765-496-2571, doty2@purdue.edu 

Sources: Tim Gavin, 765-494-3179, gavin1@purdue.edu

Cassandra Ledman, 765-494-3159, cledman@purdue.edu

Note to Journalists: Contact Tim Doty, 765-496-2571, doty2@purdue.edu to schedule an interview.