The Physical Health of America
2 MIN READ
“Over 75% of American adults are failing to meet federal guidelines for physical activity,” [1] and nearly “1.8 billion adults are at risk of disease” [2] from inactivity. Inadequate levels of physical activity are also associated with “$117 billion in annual health care costs.” [3]
At the same time, it is clear from numerous “epidemiological studies” [4] that just 30 minutes of daily moderate‑intensity activity lowers the risk of premature death and many diseases, including “stroke, heart attack, Type 2 diabetes, and several forms of cancer.” [5] The American Heart Association recommends that adults also include “75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity” [6] in your weekly routine.
“Physical activity has positive effects on cardiovascular and general health, and it can also protect the human brain and cognition.” [7] In addition to these direct health benefits, participating in sports, specifically playing basketball, contributes to the “improvement of physical, mental, and personal qualities” [8] that support social and professional development.
At Three Point Club, shooting a three pointer is a dynamic full‑body workout. The legs generate power, the core stabilizes and transfers force, and the upper body (shoulders, arms, and wrists) controls aim and release. This coordinated movement builds strength, balance, and coordination across major muscle groups.
Repetitive shooting drills provide cardiovascular benefits. Shooting in bursts with brief recovery also mimics high‑intensity interval training, which supports heart health, improves lung function, and builds endurance.
It’s also a confidence booster, nailing a few threes feels really good.
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Active People, Healthy Nation: At a Glance.” CDC, 23 Jan. 2024
[2] World Health Organization. “Nearly 1.8 Billion Adults at Risk of Disease from Not Doing Enough Physical Activity.” WHO, 26 June 2024.
[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Active People, Healthy Nation: At a Glance.” CDC, 23 Jan. 2024
[4] Piercy, Katrina L., et al. “Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd Edition.” JAMA, vol. 325, no. 19, 2021, pp. 1955–1956.
[5] Laddu, Deepika R., et al. “Physical Activity Levels Among US Adults During the COVID‑19 Pandemic.” JAMA Network Open, vol. 4, no. 10, 2021, e2125393. PubMed.
[6] American Heart Association. “AHA Recommendations for Physical Activity in Adults.” Heart.org, 19 Jan. 2024.
[7] Knapik, Joseph J., et al. “Physical Activity and Mental Health: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Role of Exercise Frequency and Intensity.” Scientific Reports, vol. 13, 2023, article no. 14084.
[8] Shao, Zhigong, Mykola M. Bezmylov, and Oksana A. Shynkaruk. “Individual Characteristics of Physical and Mental Development and Their Connection with Regular Physical Exercises When Playing Basketball.” Journal of Physical Education and Sport, vol. 22, no. 8, Aug. 2022, pp. 2049–2055. PubMed Central.