Each May, the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) leads the observance of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, marking the importance of regular physical activity for people of all ages and abilities.
For professionals working with children, youth, and families, this presents an opportunity to highlight the importance of physical fitness and promote movement as a key part of healthy development. Regular physical activity supports overall well-being by reducing the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, while also improving mental health by easing stress, supporting better sleep, and boosting mood. For children and youth, active play, physical activity, and sports participation are linked to stronger academic performance, increased self-confidence, and positive social connections.
This month also serves as a reminder to intentionally incorporate movement into daily routines and program planning. Simple strategies such as encouraging active play for younger children, increasing outdoor time, and offering structured physical activities (like basketball, aerobics, or yoga for youth) can help build lifelong healthy habits for children, youth, and families.
For more ideas on supporting physical activity and fitness, explore the Virtual Lab School’s Physical Development foundational course, which offers strategies to support motor skill development and promote active, healthy lifestyles for children and youth across the following tracks:
Throughout the month of May, ODPHP encourages professionals, families, and communities to find meaningful ways to stay active and share the benefits of an active lifestyle. For more ideas, visit the Move Your Way campaign page, which offers practical tools and resources to promote physical activity.
