Physical activity is defined
as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that results in
caloric expenditure. Although the protective effect of a more active
lifestyle is seen for both occupational and leisure-time physical
activity, the amount of physical activity at work and in the home
has declined steadily. For most people, the greatest opportunity for
physical activity is during leisure. Unfortunately, 24 percent of
men and women aged 18 and older report no leisure-time physical activity.
It is important for those who are sedentary during their
leisure-time to take the first step towards developing a pattern
of regular physical activity. Public education efforts need to address
the specific barriers that inhibit the adoption of physical activity
by different population groups.
The New Jersey Council on Physical Fitness and Sports was named
the State Council of the Year at the Gold Star Awards Dinner on
April 24, 2003. This national award, sponsored by the National Association
on Health and Fitness (NAHF), is presented annually to a state council
for outstanding achievement. The NAHF is a nonprofit organization
that exists to improve the quality of life by promoting physical
fitness, sports, and healthy lifestyles. Twenty-nine states have
Governors/State Councils. |