American Heart Association and NFL Collaborate to Boost Student Health Through Physical Activity

The American Heart Association and the National Football League (NFL), along with its 32 NFL clubs, are introducing new initiatives this back-to-school season to encourage students to increase their physical activity through the NFL PLAY 60 program. This collaboration arrives at a crucial time, as physical activity is essential for the health and well-being of youth, particularly as they return to school. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, active children tend to learn better, focus more, think more clearly, handle stress more effectively, and perform better in the classroom.

The American Heart Association, an organization dedicated to promoting healthier lives for all, recommends that children engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each day. Establishing these healthy habits early can yield immediate and long-term health benefits, such as reducing the risks of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other conditions. Beyond physical health, active kids often experience improved sleep, better cognition, and a higher overall quality of life.

Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "At the American Heart Association, our future is about improving yours. Engaging children in 60 minutes of physical activity alongside the NFL with the longstanding NFL PLAY 60 programming is one way we are working to advance health and hope for everyone." This partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to promoting longer, healthier lives through physical activity, heart health, and safety.

Rooted in American Heart Association science, NFL PLAY 60 aims to help children engage in physical activity and improve their physical and mental wellness throughout the 2024-2025 NFL season. Students will have multiple opportunities to get active, starting with a series of NFL PLAY 60 Fitness Break broadcasts. The first broadcast, themed "Move More for Whole Health," will air on September 19 and feature the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, Philadelphia Eagles, and Green Bay Packers. A second broadcast is scheduled for February 6, just before Super Bowl LIX. Advanced registration for these broadcasts is required.

Additionally, the new Daily Movement Moment Challenge in October will leverage the NFL PLAY 60 app, available for iOS and Android devices. This feature offers a 15-minute workout guided by an NFL PLAY 60 avatar, with exercises changing daily. Teachers can track their students' progress using a paper tracker, and 32 winners, one for each NFL club, will receive a $1,000 NFL PLAY 60 grant for physical activity equipment.

Furthermore, the NFL PLAY 60 Exercise Library provides two-to-three minute on-demand exercise videos from players, NFL Legends, cheerleaders, and mascots from each of the 32 NFL teams. This resource aims to help students achieve their daily movement goals.

Since 2006, the NFL and the American Heart Association have partnered to inspire kids to get active for at least 60 minutes a day. As the 2024 NFL season kicks off, the NFL remains committed to ensuring children across the country have the resources needed to live healthy lifestyles. More information on NFL PLAY 60 resources and grant opportunities can be found at heart.org/NFLPLAY60.