Regular physical activity promotes important health benefits, reduces risk for obesity, and is linked to enhanced academic performance. National recommendations call for children and adolescents to be active for 60 minutes a day. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently released recommendations that stress the importance of physical activity in schools, including access to places to play for non-school hours and in the summer.
This fact sheet highlights evidence-based strategies for increasing physical activities outside of school time. It summarizes findings that show how school-based programs, facilities, and partnerships can help children be more active.