Physical activity is an important behavior to contribute to greater health as it lowers stress and the risk for chronic diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "the evidence is clear—physical activity fosters normal growth and development, can reduce the risk of various chronic diseases, and can make people feel better, function better, and sleep better. Some health benefits start immediately after activity, and even short bouts of physical activity are beneficial. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition outlines the amounts and types of physical activity needed to maintain or improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic disease. It also highlights individual and community-level strategies that can make being physically active easier in the places where people live, learn, work, and play."

Unsafe spaces, health problems, lack of leisure time, and other barriers can interfere with an individual's ability to get the exercise they need. 

Data source: https://publichealth.nc.gov/hnc2020/docs/2017-HNC2020-AnnualDataUpdate.pdf