Between October 18–21, this website will move to a new web address (from health.gov to odphp.health.gov). During that time, some functions might not work as expected. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we’re working to make this transition as smooth as possible.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Physical Activity Guidelines Midcourse Report: Questions & Answers

Young boy and girl running in grass, two girls running in the snow

Why was the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans (PAG) Midcourse Report developed?

Since the 2008 PAG, stakeholders have encouraged HHS to update the Guidelines on a regular basis. The PAG Midcourse Report was developed to build on the 2008 PAG by exploring the science on a particular area of public health concern, and providing information to stakeholders that supports physical activity-related efforts across the nation.

What is the intended purpose of the PAG Midcourse Report?

The purpose of the PAG Midcourse Report is to present information and recommendations for increasing physical activity levels in America’s youth. Based on a review-of-reviews, the PAG Midcourse Report describes intervention strategies that can increase physical activity among youth ages 3 to 17 years in various settings where youth live, learn and play. The report organizes findings into five key settings that provide important opportunities to increase activity: school, preschool and childcare, community, family and home, and primary health care.

Family swimming in a pool, boy in a wheelchair holding a basketball

Does the PAG Midcourse Report change the 2008 PAG recommendations for adult and youth physical activity?

While the PAG Midcourse Report supports the 2008 PAG, it does not change the type and amount of physical activity recommended in the Guidelines. Children and adolescents need at least 60 minutes (1 hour) or more of physical activity each day.

Why does the PAG Midcourse Report focus on youth ages 3 to 17 years when the Physical Activity Guidelines are intended for Americans 6 years and older?

Since development of the 2008 Guidelines, new research has enhanced our understanding of physical activity in early childhood.  The PAG Midcourse Report describes current science on children ages 3 to 5 years to support on-going efforts to increase activity levels in young Americans.

Boy climbing jungle gym, four kids playing soccer

Are there new Guidelines for youth ages 3 to 6 years?

The PAG Midcourse Report does not modify existing PAG recommendations. The Guidelines are intended for Americans ages 6 years and older.