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Northeastern faculty member to assess physical activity guidelines as part of national committee

Psychology professor Charles Hillman, a new member of Northeastern University’s College of Science and Bouvé College of Health Sciences faculty, has been appointed to the 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines Advisory Committee.

The committee, comprised of some of the country’s most accomplished physical activity and health experts, is charged with providing science-based guidance on how children and adults can improve their health through physical activity. The recommendations will be considered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as they begin developing updated Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans for 2018.

Read: HHS Announces 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines Advisory Committee

Charles Hillman

Professor Charles Hillman

Hillman is a leading researcher in the area of neurocognitive kinesiology. His work focuses on how physical activity, fitness obesity, and other health behaviors relate the brain structure and function in kids. “I am excited to have been named to this committee,” said Hillman, “as it will be the first time that brain and cognition will be included among the benefits that physical activity may provide to our health.”

Under the current—and first—edition of Physical Activity Guidelines, established in 2008, 60 minutes of daily physical activity is recommended for children, while adults are encouraged to partake in at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week.

“We know that meeting the recommendations in the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans can produce physical and mental health benefits,” said acting Assistant Secretary for Health, Dr. Karen DeSalvo in a release announcing the committee. “Regular physical activity… can reduce the risk of depression, cognitive decline, and many chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.”

Read: 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines Advisory Committee Members

The committee’s first meeting is scheduled for July 14, 2016, starting at 8:30 a.m. This meeting is open to the public and can be attended in person or via webcast. The registration link can be found here.

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