IOM Report Urges Daily Hour of Activity for Youth 

The FUTP50 Partner Newsletter reported that the Institute of Medicine advocates for at least 60 minutes per day of vigorous or moderate-intensity physical activity for K–12 students. The agency recommends including activity during physical education class, recess, classroom activity breaks and active-learning opportunities. Only half of American children meet the recommended daily activity standards and 44% of administrators report cutting physical education to devote more time to tested subjects.  As reported in Education Week, research studies show that structured recess prompts healthier outcomes for children, including better behavior. New evidence shows 60 minutes of physical activity each day reduced the likelihood of obesity by 4.8%; reduction in weight was particularly successful among boys.