Fund Effective and High ROI Federal Science and Education Programs on Physical Activity
Fund Effective and High ROI Federal Science and Education Programs on Physical Activity
The National Academy of Kinesiology (NAK) announces in conjunction with the American Kinesiology Association (AKA) the publication of a viewpoint article entitled “America can’t be great without great science and highly educated professionals ̶̶̶̶ Continue the support of research and physical activity programs providing high return on investment” in Kinesiology Review [https://doi.org/10.1123/kr.2025-0013] April 18, 2025. The Academy expresses its concern over recent federal government attempts to cut important and highly effective research and educational programs on physical activity/exercise. The Academy summarizes the conclusive scientific evidence supporting the greater effectiveness and return on investment (ROI) of preventive investments in physical activity programs to promote healthy longevity over traditional remedial medical treatment in all Americans*.
The article is written for a general audience but also includes references to major systematic reviews and scientific position statements that summarize the conclusive evidence supporting the benefits of regular physical activity/exercise.
The academy also invites partners in academia and the learned professions of health promotion and human services to join us in support for federal funding for research, preventive health promotion, and educational programs related to physical activity. Organizations are invited to link to the viewpoint on their webpages, endorse it, and/or reprint it in their peer-reviewed journals. Contact Kim Scott for questions about NAK, the viewpoint article or endorsement of its message. [kims@nationalacademyofkinesiology.org]
*The Academy supports the recent reintroduction of the Personal Health Investment Today (PHIT) Act. This proposed legislation allows pre-tax health savings account (HSA) and flexible spending account (FSA) to be used for qualified physical activity (e.g., fitness, sports) services. This incentive for regular physical activity is a positive step for persons and families with financial resources. The Academy also supports more comprehensive federal investment in physical activity promotion and services for all, not Americans at higher income levels.
The Academy plans to update this webpage by posting organizations endorsing or reprinting our viewpoint here. Please check here regularly and verify if your organization has been included once you notify the Academy.