House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

Exercise and recreational activities increase our ability to prevent a variety of diseases, including obesity, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease, all of which are considered key comorbidity factors for COVID-19. According to the Department of Health, 33% of all adults and 18% of children in this Commonwealth are affected by obesity. Further, the prevalence of obesity, like many other serious and chronic diseases, is higher in Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black adults and children, than in non-Hispanic White and non-Hispanic Asian individuals.
 
Recreational activities and exercise also enhance our mental health and overall sense of well-being. We all deserve access to physical fitness, whether at home, in the great outdoors, or at a local gym, health club, recreational facility or other fitness venue.

Amidst the pandemic, Pennsylvania’s fitness community, including the Pennsylvania Fitness Alliance, has championed COVID-19 precautions while encouraging the continued importance of exercise. Fitness operators adapted to help curb the spread of COVID-19, while allowing Pennsylvanians to retain their active and healthy lifestyles. The Pennsylvania Fitness Alliance represents 1,345 health clubs in this Commonwealth with a combined membership of almost two million health club members.
 
Please join me in acknowledging the Pennsylvania fitness community and healthy lifestyles by designating May 2023 as “Fitness Month.”