The solution is simple: Move more

Movement is powerful. It fuels our bodies, sharpens our minds, and strengthens our communities. Yet across Iowa, too many of us are sitting still.

One-third of adults live with obesity, another third are overweight, and one in four say they do not get any activity outside of work. That inactivity adds up, costing Iowa billions each year in health care and lost productivity, on top of increasing the prevalence of chronic diseases.

But part of the solution is refreshingly simple: move more. Just 30 minutes of moderate activity a day, whether it is a brisk walk, a bike ride, or a quick pickup game with friends, can reduce stress, boost mood, and prevent chronic disease. It doesn’t take a gym membership or fancy equipment, just a commitment to take that first step.

If you are not sure where to start, step outside. Iowa is full of parks, trails, and hidden gems that make it easy to get moving. Even a walk through your neighborhood or local park counts. Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation’s Iowa By Trail website can help you find new spots to explore, whether it is a short stroll after dinner or a weekend adventure with family.

To keep Iowa moving, we need more than individual effort. Local leaders and businesses can help by designing communities that make movement part of daily life. Supporting funding for trail systems, park improvements, and safe sidewalks helps every Iowan find opportunities to be active close to home.

You can make your voice heard by advocating for investments in public green spaces like trails and parks, or by encouraging your workplace to adopt movement-friendly policies. Small steps lead to big change, and when Iowans move together, we build stronger, healthier communities.

Let’s get moving, Iowa!

Jami Haberl is executive director of the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative. Joe McGovern foundation president with the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation.