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Albany County has introduced a new initiative called the "Move Your Way Albany County" campaign to promote better health among its residents. The campaign encourages individuals to meet the weekly recommended 150 minutes of aerobic exercise and engage in muscle-strengthening activities twice a week. This effort is part of a national movement led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to promote the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.
The campaign specifically targets residents aged 25 to 60 who are considering starting physical activity but may not know how to begin. It aims to inspire adults to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines by highlighting simple and enjoyable ways to move. Suggestions include parking further from stores, adding squats or lunges to chores, or dancing at home.
Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy emphasized the importance of physical activity for good health, stating, "While we all know that physical activity is the foundation of good health, there are an array of everyday challenges that can prevent you from prioritizing fitness."
He added, "This campaign will focus on removing these barriers, encouraging residents regardless of age, ability, or schedule, to find fitness opportunities that work for them."
The Albany County Department of Health Interim Commissioner Maribeth Miller noted, "Physical activity doesn’t have to be hard or time-consuming to make a difference." The campaign will use community events, educational resources, and local partnerships to make physical activity accessible and inclusive for everyone.
Despite the benefits of regular physical activity, such as reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving mental health, only 23 percent of U.S. adults currently meet the recommended exercise guidelines. The "Move Your Way Albany County" campaign aims to change that by providing tools and encouragement to help residents get moving.