School Health: Physical Activity
Minnesota faces disparities in physical activity levels across age groups and genders that can be addressed both in school and out-of-school. Participation in regular physical activity promotes normal growth and development by helping youth build and maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints.
Schools serve as excellent venues to provide students with the opportunity for daily physical activity. Physically fit youth and adults have better concentration, motivation and stamina. Youth, especially, are better able to learn when they are regularly physically active.
Physical activity tips and fact sheets
Importance of School Physical Education (PDF: 59KB/2 pages)
Walking and Biking to School: Physical Activity and Health Outcomes
Physical Opportunities at School (PDF: 60KB/3 pages)
Overweight youth in Minnesota; their eating habits and physical activity (PDF: 504KB/14 pages)
State-based Physical Activity Program Directory
State Indicator Report on Physical Activity 2010 (CDC) (PDF)
Physical activity information for students
President's Challenge
The President's Challenge is a program that encourages all Americans to make being active part of their everyday lives. Start earning Presidential awards for your daily physical activity and fitness efforts.
Physical activity policies
Recess in Elementary Schools (PDF: 39KB/4 pages)
A position paper of the Council on Physical Education for Children and the National Association for Sport and Physical Education.
How Much Physical Activity do Children Need?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations.
Physical Education is Critical to a Complete Education
A position paper from the National Association for Sport and Physical Education.
Award programs
Healthier US School Challenge
Recognizes schools that are creating healthier school environments through their promotion of good nutrition and physical activity.