Study Reveals Physical Inactivity Costs the U.S. $192 Billion Annually

A recent comprehensive study published in the American Journal of Health Promotion highlights the substantial economic impact of physical inactivity among adults in the United States. The research indicates that insufficient engagement in leisure-time aerobic activities contributes approximately $192 billion each year in healthcare costs, accounting for about 12.6% of the nation's total health expenditures.

The analysis was based on data collected from over 76,000 adults between 2012 and 2019. The findings reveal that just over half (52.4%) of U.S. adults meet recommended aerobic activity guidelines, while 20.4% are insufficiently active and 27.3% are completely inactive. The average adult incurs around $6,566 in annual healthcare expenses. Notably, those who are inactive or only partially active face significantly higher costs—$2,025 more annually for the completely inactive and $1,355 more for the insufficiently active—compared to their active counterparts.

Experts emphasize that physical activity is a vital investment in health. Dr. Adam Chen from the University of Georgia elaborates that aerobic exercise strengthens the heart, mitigates chronic illnesses, and boosts overall energy and vitality. Despite some progress in increasing physical activity levels nationally, healthcare costs continue to escalate, largely due to preventable chronic conditions.

The study’s co-authors, including Laurie Whitsel of the American Heart Association and Jennifer Matjasko from the CDC, advocate for integrating physical activity assessments and prescriptions into healthcare settings. They stress the importance of making movement a normal part of daily routines through workplace redesigns and community policies that promote safe, accessible, and convenient physical activity.

In conclusion, the researchers call for urgent cross-sector action to normalize physical activity across all aspects of life, from workplaces to neighborhoods, to reduce preventable healthcare costs and enhance public health. Moving more throughout the day is a simple yet powerful strategy to foster a healthier future for Americans.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-physical-inactivity-crisis-billion-annually.html