Getting active each day is just as important to your overall health as getting proper sleep each night. That's why this May the BSC has teamed up with the President’s Challenge, a new improved program of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports.

The President's Challenge is a series of programs designed to help improve anyone's activity level. Young or old. It's about choosing to live a healthier lifestyle — and finding things you really like to do.

Get moving!

No matter how active you are right now, you'll find a President's Challenge program that's right for you. Discover the program that best fits your fitness goals:

• Active Lifestyle: For those just getting started (less than 30 minutes of activity a day, 5 times a week).

• Presidential Champions: For those who are already active and want a new challenge.

Accepting the President's Challenge is the first step towards being more active. Here are ten tips to start boosting your activity level today:

1. Use a push mower to mow the lawn.
2. Go for a walk in a nearby park.
3. Take the stairs instead of an elevator.
4. Bike to work, to run errands, or visit friends.
5. Clean out the garage or the attic.
6. Walk with a friend over the lunch hour.
7. Volunteer to become a coach or referee.
8. Sign up for a group exercise class.
9. Join a softball league.
10. Park at the farther end of the lot.

Why is staying active important?

Because, like getting proper sleep, your well-being depends on it. You'll look and feel better, every day.

When you make staying active part of your daily life, you don't get tired after taking a flight of stairs. You have more energy for weekend get-togethers with family and friends. You're more alert. You do better at work. And you're more sure of yourself.

Fitness is about improving endurance, flexibility, and strength through regular physical activity. That even includes things like walking the dog or cleaning the garage.

Remember, it's never too late to get more active. Every little bit helps. It doesn't have to be strenuous to be healthy, either. Just start slowly and build gradually. The time to begin is right now. You'll start to notice the difference right away — for both your body and your mind.

Heart health - Regular physical activity can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels and can reduce the risk of illnesses such as Type II diabetes or heart disease.

Bone support - Exercise is a good way to build strong, healthy bones and can help slow the bone loss associated with getting older.

Sense of well-being - Being in good shape can give you more energy, reduce anxiety and depression, improve self-esteem, and help you better manage stress.

Social life - Staying active can be a great way to have fun, make new friends, and spend quality time with family.

Physical appearance - You look better when you're in shape. Staying active helps you tone muscles and maintain a healthy weight — and can even improve your posture.

For more information and resources, visit the President's Challenge Web site.