Percentage of physically inactive U.S. adults by state 2023

This statistic represents the percentage of adults in the United States that had done no physical activity or exercise within the preceding 30 days, in 2023. That year, Mississippi had the highest rate of physical inactivity among U.S. states, with 33.5 percent of adults reporting no physical activity or exercise besides their job. The state of Utah had the lowest rates of physical inactivity at this time. 

Physical inactivity and obesity

Physical inactivity is an important risk factor in the development of obesity. Similar to physical inactivity rates, Mississippi had the second highest rates of obesity in 2023 at around 40 percent, while Colorado had the lowest rate at around 25 percent. Prevalence rates of obesity have grown steadily among U.S. adults over the decade. 

Activity recommendations

Physical inactivity not only increases the risk of being overweight or obese, but also raises the risk of developing other diseases such as cardiovascular disease. Due to the increased health risks of inactivity, the U.S. government recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous activity for adults. Children are recommended to include 60 or more minutes per day for aerobic, muscle-strengthening, and bone-strengthening activities three times per week.