"Get Moving" Physical Activity Adult Participant Activity Guide
DOWNLOADMay 15, 2026 - Michigan State University Extension, Heather Dyer and Heidi DeVooght
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What is this Facilitator Guide?
The MSU Extension Nutrition and Physical Activity team is committed to enhancing physical activity offerings by delivering clear, consistent messaging that aligns with the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. As part of this initiative, we’ve developed these six lessons presented in the "Get Moving" Adult Participant Activity Guide to support both instructors and participants.
For more information and for facilitation support, access the companion "Get Moving" Physical Activity Adult Facilitator Guide.
Lesson summary
These lessons introduce adult learners to the foundational elements of physical fitness in engaging, inclusive, and easy-to-understand ways. Each lesson is designed to promote physical literacy (knowing different ways to move and feeling confident and capable of being active) and healthy habits through intentional teaching of fitness, discussion of barriers to fitness, and application of lessons through interactive participation. Participants are encouraged to decide how and how much they participate based on their abilities, comfort levels, and needs.
Lesson 1: Understanding the Physical Activity Guidelines
- Review the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans and understand why regular movement matters and what types of activity are recommended for adults and older adults.
Lesson 2: Physical Activity vs. Exercise – What’s the Difference?
- Understand the difference between physical activity and exercise, and reinforce that both contribute to better health. Physical activity includes everyday movement, while exercise is more structured and intentional—but both matter!
Lesson 3: Boost Your Health with Aerobic Activity
- Understand that cardiovascular or aerobic activity is any movement that increases your heart rate and makes you breathe faster. It strengthens your heart and lungs and is a powerful tool for long-term health.
Lesson 4: Strengthen Your Muscles and Bones for a Healthier You
- Understand how muscle-strengthening and bone-strengthening activities help keep your body strong, support daily tasks, improve balance, and reduce the risk of injury—especially as we age.
Lesson 5: Flexibility – Adults and Older Adults
- Understand the importance of flexibility training and how it supports mobility, reduces injury, and enhances quality of life — especially as we age.
Lesson 6: Balance and Stability – Adults and Older Adults
- Understand the importance of balance and stability exercises for preventing falls, maintaining independence, and improving confidence with daily movements.
