A new report reveals that nearly one in five adults in the United States do not engage in any physical activity outside of work. This statistic highlights significant variations in exercise habits across different states, according to data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the United Health Foundation’s latest America’s Health Rankings report.
The findings indicate that about 21.8% of American adults reported no physical activity beyond their regular jobs in 2024, a slight decrease from 24.2% in 2023. The report identifies Mississippi as the least active state, with 30.6% of adults indicating they do not exercise outside of work. Following closely are West Virginia and Arkansas, with inactivity rates of 28.7% and 28.5%, respectively.
State Rankings and Health Implications
The report highlights a concerning trend where Southern and Appalachian states show high levels of physical inactivity. Alabama, Louisiana, Kentucky, and Oklahoma each report inactivity rates of approximately 28%. In contrast, the District of Columbia boasts the lowest rate of physical inactivity at 13.9%. Among states, Colorado (15.6%), Vermont (16%), and Utah (17%) rank as the most active, reflecting a healthier lifestyle in these regions.
Public health experts stress the serious consequences of inactivity. According to the United Health Foundation, insufficient physical activity is linked to increased risks of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. “Being physically active and reducing sedentary behavior improves health at all ages,” the report emphasizes.
Federal guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity. Research published in the journal *Circulation* indicates that adults who meet these activity guidelines have significantly lower mortality risks from cardiovascular disease and other causes. Even incorporating just 10 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity daily could prevent tens of thousands of deaths annually, underscoring the importance of physical activity in daily life.
Demographic Disparities in Physical Activity
The report also highlights disparities in inactivity rates among various demographic groups. Adults with lower incomes, less education, disabilities, and those residing in rural areas tend to be less active. Additionally, individuals in physically demanding jobs may be less inclined to exercise in their leisure time compared to those in sedentary roles.
Despite these challenges, there is evidence of progress. Nationally, the percentage of adults reporting no physical activity has decreased to its lowest level since tracking began nearly three decades ago. States like Minnesota, Vermont, and Wyoming have shown notable improvements in their inactivity rates.
The report also ranks states based on overall health. New Hampshire emerges as the healthiest state, followed by Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, and Utah. Conversely, Louisiana is identified as the least healthy state, trailed by Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, and West Virginia.
Dr. Margaret-Mary Wilson, Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at UnitedHealth Group, stated, “As we reflect on the findings in this year’s Annual Report, we must rededicate ourselves to improving health care in this country and creating a healthier nation for all.” The report calls for increased awareness and initiatives to promote physical activity across all demographics, emphasizing the critical role of exercise in maintaining overall health.
These findings underline the importance of addressing physical inactivity as a public health priority, illustrating how geography, demographics, and lifestyle choices intertwine to influence health outcomes across the United States.
