211 San Diego strives to address the social and health needs of the whole person including reaching your health goals through physical activity. We can help individuals get the information they need for a healthier and happier life. 

Benefits of Physical Activity

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, staying active is one of the best things people can do to improve their health. Balanced nutrition and physical activity are essential to a person’s overall health and well-being regardless of age, abilities, shape, or size. Increased physical activity can improve health, increase the quality of life, and reduce health care costs. 

Brain Health 

Physical Activity is not only good for your muscles and bones but can keep your brain happy, too. Physical activity can improve your cognitive health and help you think, learn, problem-solve, and create emotional balance. Physical Activity also reduces the risk of depression and anxiety, improves sleep, and improves cognition. 

Weight Management 

When combined with a healthy diet, physical activity can help you maintain your weight. How much physical activity you need depends mainly on your age, but research shows that regular physical activity will increase your chances of maintaining a healthy weight.  

Reduce Your Health Risk 

At least 150 minutes of exercise each week can put you at a lower risk for developing cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and several common cancers. Regular physical activity can help you control your blood glucose levels, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels.  

Physical Activity for Children 

Kids need physical activity to grow up strong and healthy. Aerobic exercise, muscle strengthening, and bone-strengthening physical activity are all necessary for children and adolescents. Recommended activity levels change from Preschool-Aged Children to School-Aged and Adolescent Children as well as the suggested activities. 

Childhood Obesity Initiative 

The Childhood Obesity Initiative aims to reduce and prevent childhood obesity by advancing policy, systems, and environmental change through collective impact. Find resources ranging from toolkits for coaches and parents to make healthy nutrition a part of youth athletic experiences, to resources for faith communities

The City of San Diego Parks and Recreation  

The City of San Diego Parks & Recreation Department offers a variety of recreational services and programs for all different age groups, including: older adult recreation, sports leagues for youth and adults, and therapeutic recreational services that provide sports, recreation, leisure, and outreach services to San Diegans with physical, mental, and emotional disabilities. 

The County of San Diego Parks and Recreation 

The County of San Diego Parks and Recreation has several resources for all ages in San Diego. You can find Day-Use Parks, Trails (for Hiking, Biking, and Equestrian), and Program Guides with seasonal programming with different planned activities free of costs such as fitness circuit groups, group morning hikes, and more.