NFL PLAY 60 and American Heart Association Tackle Youth Inactivity

In a powerful push to combat sedentary lifestyles among America’s youth, the American Heart Association and the NFL are joining forces through the NFL PLAY 60 initiative. Just over a quarter of U.S. children ages 6-11 and 14% of those ages 12-17 meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity, according to the American Heart Association’s 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Update. To address this, more than 100 sixth-grade students from Robert Fulton Elementary School in North Bergen, New Jersey, recently took part in an interactive NFL PLAY 60 event at the North Bergen Recreation Center. New York Giants quarterback Jameis Winston led the students through a series of engaging drills, supported by USA Football, designed to make movement fun and accessible. The event featured activity stations focused on movement, teamwork, and skill-building, reinforcing that physical activity can be both enjoyable and foundational to lifelong wellness.

“This summer the World Cup is bringing people together, and we want to multiply that energy by collaborating both football communities for maximum impact,” said Winston, a Heisman Trophy winner and former No. 1 overall NFL draft pick. “Through NFL PLAY 60, this initiative is about helping kids stay active, build healthy habits and see how sports can unite and inspire the next generation.” The NFL PLAY 60 initiative encourages children to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day to support both immediate and long-term physical and mental health. Since 2006, the NFL and the American Heart Association have partnered to bring physical activity to life for young people through school and community-based programming, rooted in the Heart Association’s recommendation of least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity daily for children. Research shows that regular movement supports cardiovascular health while improving focus, stress management, and classroom performance.

To help overcome common barriers like limited time, space, or weather, NFL PLAY 60 also offers the NFL PLAY 60 Exercise Library, featuring short, on-demand videos from all 32 NFL teams. These resources make it easier for educators, families, and caregivers to incorporate physical activity throughout the day—whether in the classroom, at home, or in the community. The initiative reaches millions of youth nationwide through school programs, community events, and digital tools, reinforcing the importance of daily physical activity for lifelong health. More information is available at heart.org/NFLPLAY60.