An Overview Young people can build healthy bodies and establish healthy lifestyles by including physical activity in their daily lives. However, many young people are not physically active on a regular basis, and physical activity declines dramatically during adolescence. School and community programs can help young people get active and stay active. Improves strength and endurance.
Helps build healthy bones and muscles.
Helps control weight. Reduces anxiety and stress and increases self-esteem. May improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The percentage of young people who are overweight has almost doubled in the past 20 years. Inactivity and poor diet cause at least 300,000 deaths a year in the United States.