To achieve our mission of getting more people moving, we must create a cultural shift that supports, encourages and makes it possible to be active in our communities. Producing a sea change like this requires a multi-faceted approach, much like the one taken by The National Physical Activity Plan (NPAP)—a comprehensive strategic roadmap that details policies, programs and initiatives designed to increase activity among all Americans.

The vision of the NPAP is that, “one day, all Americans will be physically active, and they will live, work and play in environments that encourage and support regular physical activity.” A founding principle of successful health initiatives is to meet people where they feel comfortable, have a support system and naturally gather.

The NPAP has integrated this framework into its design by dividing the plan into nine sectors—Business and Industry; Community Recreation, Fitness and Parks; Education; Faith-Based Settings; Healthcare; Mass Media; Public Health; Sport; and Transportation, Land Use and Community Design. Each sector has its own set of strategies and tactics to help guide organizations and fitness professionals on their journeys to helping others lead healthy and active lifestyles.

We know that you work diligently to coach, train and teach others how to improve their health and fitness, and we want to showcase your work as it relates to the nine sectors—not only to celebrate your successes; but also to inspire others to stand up and join our efforts to build activity in our daily lives.

Over the next several months we will be posting blogs relating to each of the nine sectors. As we make our way through the plan we will highlight ways in which our dedicated professionals are making a difference in peoples’ lives, whether through leading a workplace walking group or teaching a group fitness class at a local church.

If you have a story to share about how you’ve helped an individual, worksite, school, faith-based institution or community become active, we want to hear from you. We’ll be accepting story submissions at Advocacy@ACEfitness.org over the next several months.