The public tends to think of being fit as going to a gym, walking the treadmill or jogging. But it can be everyday activities such as dancing, gardening and housework. While intensive exercise will produce more noticeable changes, even a moderate workout will leave people feeling better about themselves, help them sleep better and boost mental health. We're trying to stop a lot of unnecessary deaths. The 1994 Arizona Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey found 58 percent of Arizona adults engage in physical activity less than 20 minutes for three times each week.
Research shows children are really active until around the third grade.
The idea is to replace some television and reading time with walking the dog, shooting hoops or other enjoyable activity, Pangrazi said. The state health department expects to reach 20,000 children in 13 counties this year.