Piercy KL, et al. - Researchers summarized key guidelines in the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition (PAG), providing information on the types and amounts of physical activity that provide substantial health benefits. Based on the recommendations, they emphasized facilitation of awareness of the guidelines and promotion of the health benefits of physical activity. Moreover, health professionals and policy makers were recommended to support efforts to implement programs, practices, and policies to facilitate increased physical activity and to improve the health of the US population.

Methods

• A systematic review of the science supporting physical activity and health was carried out by the 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines Advisory Committee.
• A total of 38 questions and 104 sub-questions were addressed by the committee.
• On the basis of consistency and quality of the research, gradation of the evidence was done by the committee.
• The key guidelines were based on the evidence graded as strong or moderate.
• The PAG was based on the 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines Advisory Committee Scientific Report by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Results

• For multiple population groups, the types and amounts of physical activity that result in improvement in a variety of health outcomes were mentioned in the PAG.
• Physical activity throughout the day was recommended for preschool-aged children (3-5 years of age) in order to enhance growth and development.
• The recommendation for the children and adolescents aged 6-17 years included ≥ 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily.
• For adults, suggestions included ≥ 150 minutes to 300 minutes per week of moderate-intensity, or 75-150 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity, or an equivalent combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activity.
• Muscle-strengthening activities on ≥ 2 days per week were also recommended for adults.
• Multicomponent physical activity that includes balance training as well as aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities was recommended for older adults.
• At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week was suggested for pregnant and postpartum women.
• The key guidelines for adults were considered applicable for able adults with chronic conditions or disabilities; these subjects should do both aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.
• For nearly everyone, beneficial impact of moving more and sitting less were emphasized in the recommendations.
• Even modest increases in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity lead to most benefit in individuals performing the least physical activity.
• With more physical activity, the occurrence of additional benefits was reported.
• Benefits of both aerobic and muscle-strengthening physical activity were suggested.