Date
Friday
Apr
18

April 18

National Exercise Day

Get your body moving and join in on National Exercise Day - whether it's taking a walk, going for a jog, or doing some yoga, find your perfect fit!

Yearly Date
April 18
Type
Day
Category
Health

Introduction

It's time to break a sweat and get moving on National Exercise Day on April 18! This day was created in the 1980s as a way to encourage people of all ages, sizes, and abilities to engage in physical activity. It also serves as an opportunity for everyone to become more aware of how important exercise is for our overall health. So don your workout gear and let's get active!

National Exercise Day Timeline

1953
Exercise & Heart Disease Study
Dr. Jerry Morris conducted the first significant evidence-based study linking lack of exercise to heart disease.
1972
Title IX and Women's Exercise
Title IX paved the way for gender equity in sports, substantially increasing the participation and visibility of women in exercise.
1980s
National Exercise Day Creation
As part of a campaign to improve health and fitness, National Exercise Day was established in the United States.
1996
Surgeon General's Report
The U.S. Surgeon General's Report on Physical Activity and Health provided clear evidence on the health benefits of regular exercise.
2003
Pedometers Popularize Walking
The broad consumer adoption of pedometers led to the popularization of walking as a simple, accessible form of exercise.
2019
COVID-19 & Home Workouts
During the global COVID-19 pandemic, home workouts gained massive popularity due to lockdown measures.

How to Celebrate National Exercise Day

1

Go for a run

Put on your running shoes and go outside! Take in the scenery, explore a new route, or challenge yourself with a faster pace. Running is an amazing way to get in your daily exercise and celebrate National Exercise Day.

2

Do an outdoor workout

Take advantage of the great outdoors and do a workout in nature. Go for a swim, ride your bike, or find a nearby hiking trail. You'll be getting some fresh air along with all that exercising.

3

Try a new exercise activity

Have you ever wanted to try kickboxing, yoga, or Pilates? National Exercise Day is the perfect time to give it a go! Research local classes and see if you can find something new to try.

4

Organize an exercise competition

Gather up your friends and family for an afternoon of friendly competition. Create different teams and have them compete against each other in various physical activities. The winners could even get rewards like medals or trophies.

5

Sign up for a race

Challenge yourself by signing up for a race like an obstacle course, marathon, or triathlon. This will help motivate you to stay active and stay in shape while having fun at the same time.

Why National Exercise Day is Important

A

Exercise is vital for physical health

Regular exercise is an essential part of staying healthy and can help ward off serious illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. It also helps to increase energy levels, improve mental clarity, and reduce stress and depression.

B

It's important for emotional well being

Not only does exercise benefit your physical health, it has positive effects on your emotional state as well. Studies have shown that regular physical activity can boost self-esteem, increase confidence, and even reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

C

Can be a fun way to spend time with family & friends

Exercising doesn't have to be a solitary activity - it can be used as a fun way to connect with family or friends! Go for a stroll around the park or take a bike ride together. You can also join group classes like yoga or Zumba to get everyone in the mood for movement!

National Exercise Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Apr 17
Monday
2024
Apr 17
Wednesday
2025
Apr 17
Thursday
2026
Apr 17
Friday
2027
Apr 17
Saturday