Fitness in the United States during the Early National Period was influenced by Europe. Immigrants brought many aspects of their culture into the country, including Swedish and German gymnastics. It was in the 1800's that the idea of good health and fitness gained popularity. Since then, the United States took a huge step forward in terms of fitness into the 20th century. As sugars and fats increased in the diets of people due to the commercialization of food products, fitness became a prominent concept because people were becoming more aware of their health. Activity levels and food intake became measurable and thus controllable.
Early U.S. presidents also knew about the need for fitness and exercise. Benjamin Franklin recommended regular physical activities like swimming, running, etc., and Thomas Jefferson believed that fitness was a necessary requirement for a healthy life.
Regular exercise and physical activity promotes strong muscles and bones. It improves respiratory, cardiovascular health, and overall health. Staying active can also help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease and reduce your risk for some cancers.
El día de aptitud física en la Escuela Jefferson fue un día excelente para nuestro personal y estudiantes. Es una celebración anual en la que se destaca la importancia de mantenerse activo a través del deporte y las actividades físicas, que se observa en mayo durante el Mes Nacional del Deporte y la Actividad Física.
