[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8509--APR. 29, 2010

Proclamation 8509 of April 29, 2010
National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, 2010
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

The 2010 Winter Olympics inspired people around the globe as they
watched elite athletes push their bodies to the limit. Olympic
competition showcases the vibrancy that physical activity can add to a
person's life. Exercise strengthens both body and mind, and maintaining
good health can help prevent injury and disease. Americans of every age,
background, and ability can weave activity into their daily habits to
improve their mental and physical wellbeing. This month, we celebrate
fitness, sports, and outdoor recreation as both healthy activities and
cherished national traditions.
Exercise can help prevent complications from conditions like heart
disease, diabetes, and obesity, which are among our most costly and
widespread health problems. That is why my Administration is investing
in the long-term health of our Nation by encouraging Americans to stay
fit. Through interactive toolkits and programs, the President's Council
on Physical Fitness and Sports helps motivate citizens of all ages to

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incorporate physical activity into their lives. Visit Fitness.gov for
more information and resources to get started.
Involvement in sports and recreational activities offer opportunities
for young people to learn about teamwork, fair play, focus, and
dedication. As they develop into athletes, they acquire time management,
goal setting, and leadership skills. At any age, exercising with others
also builds lasting friendships and helps keep individuals motivated and
involved.
Our future depends on how we raise and prepare the next generation, and
America's epidemic of childhood obesity requires our immediate
attention. The Department of Health and Human Services, the President's
Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, and other members of the White
House Task Force on Childhood Obesity are partnering with First Lady
Michelle Obama's ``Let's Move'' initiative to solve this epidemic within
a generation. ``Let's Move'' cultivates the appreciation of nutritious
food and inspires kids to engage in physical activity. It empowers
parents and caregivers by emphasizing their role in making healthy
choices for their children and stresses the importance of access to
nutritious foods in our schools and communities. Visit LetsMove.gov to
learn more about this exciting campaign.
During National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, let us recommit to
making healthy choices that will reduce our risk of chronic diseases and
help our families lead longer, happier lives.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2010 as National
Physical Fitness and Sports Month. I call upon all Americans to take
control of their health and wellness by making physical activity,
fitness, and sports participation an important part of their daily
lives.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-ninth day of
April, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
BARACK OBAMA