May 2024: Michigan Moves Month

WHEREAS, physical activity plays a critically important role in overall health; and,

WHEREAS, physical activity is a cost-effective, fun, safe, and evidence-based public health intervention to address chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, as well as mental illness and substance use disorders; and,

WHEREAS, recent research suggests being active for as little as 15 minutes every day can reduce depression by 26%. Additional research shows a 20% reduction in developing anxiety by maintaining higher levels of physical activity; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan is dedicated to improving the quality of life of all residents and visitors through movement to inspire and facilitate a culture of active living; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan provides over 100 public beaches, 103 state parks, and recreation areas, 19.3 million acres of forest, and thousands of miles of trails as places where people can be physically active; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan Moves Coalition, Michigan Fitness Foundation, Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports, Michigan Society of Health and Physical Educators, Michigan Fitness Association, state agencies, private and nonprofit organizations, and other related groups can serve to enlighten and ignite awareness for physical activity opportunities in worksites, schools, businesses, fitness facilities, and communities throughout the state; and,

WHEREAS,  an effort to improve the health and well-being of all Michiganders, Michigan Moves Month in its third year, will promote diverse forms of human movement for persons of every ability to pursue an active and healthy lifestyle and participate in regular physical activity throughout their life;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2024, as Michigan Moves Month to celebrate the physical and mental health benefits of physical activity.