It is a well-researched fact that sedentary behavior and lack of physical activity is bad for our health. Despite this, older Americans are still not getting the recommended amount of physical activity.

A recent report has revealed that one in four Americans aged 50 and above are putting themselves at risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes due to physical inactivity.

The report was completed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In the report, the results of a national health survey were analyzed. The survey concentrated on older adults. The survey was conducted in 2014.

According to the report, 31 million elderly Americans are physically inactive. This included 29% of women and 26% of men.

Along racial lines, nearly one-third of blacks and Hispanics were inactive. 26% of whites were inactive. Of other races, only 27% participated in daily exercise.

Researchers involved in the study found that the older a person gets, the less likely they are to exercise. 35% of those aged 75 and older did not exercise. In comparison, of those aged 65 to 74 years old, 27% were inactive. For those aged 50 to 64, 25% were inactive.

Those found to be less active were southerners – 30% of elderly Americans living in the south were inactive. This was compared to the Midwest, where 28 percent were inactive and the Northeast, at 27% and 23% in the West.

Elderly adults who weighed more than their counterparts were also found to be less likely to exercise. Education seems to play a part as well. The more education an adult has, the more likely they are to exercise.

If you need to become more physically active or just want to meet a health or weight loss goal and need help, look to Frank Tortorici. As a certified personal trainer, he can help you reach your fitness goals. Contact him today for an appointment.