The National Physical Activity Plan is a comprehensive set of policies, programs, and initiatives designed to increase physical activity in all segments of the U.S. population. The Plan aims to foster a national culture that supports physically active lifestyles. Its ultimate purpose is to improve health, prevent disease and disability, and enhance quality of life.
The 2016 National Physical Activity Plan built on the first U.S. National Physical Activity Plan, which was released in 2010. Like the original Plan, the 2016 Plan was developed through a process that engaged hundreds of professionals, researchers, and leaders from public and private organizations. These individuals contributed to the work of nine expert panels, each of which focused on one societal sector.
These nine sectors—Business and Industry; Community Recreation, Fitness and Parks; Education; Faith-Based Settings; Healthcare; Mass Media; Public Health; Sport; and Transportation, Land Use and Community Design—provide the organizational framework for the Plan. Each Expert Panel reviewed the 2010 Plan and recommended enhancements, refinements, and additions to the Strategies and Tactics that comprise the core content for its sector.
