HHS Comprehensive Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans

On April 27, HHS Secretary Leavitt announced the formation of an Advisory Committee to make recommendations on Comprehensive Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. Some of the Advisory Committee members participated in an Institute of Medicine Workship on this subject last October. In it, they reviewed the scientific literature on the health benefits (and some of the risks (injuries)) of exercise. The Surgeon General of the United States had reported on health benefits of exercise back in 1996 and the World Health Organization had reported on the health benefits of exercise and risks of a sedentary life in 2002 in preparation for its initiative to formulate its Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health. The Advisory Committe is to have its first meeting on June 28 and 29. I have asked HHS to be put on the mailing or emailing list for further information on the committee's activities. I believe they will provide this information to me as the Committee's conduct must be governed by the Advisory Committee Act. I intend to make further posts on this subject as I get the information.

The Institute of Medicine workshop added value by reviewing later medical literature and reaching conclusions on the amount and strength of data supporting the various possible benefits of exercise. To read all the referenced literature in summary workshop report would require months of intense concentration.

I believe that sporting goods manufacturing and retailing and sports instruction and training businesses in particular should monitor the Advisory Committee's deliberations and recommendations because what they recommend could make possible much more targeted marketing of their offerings in the marketplace.