NORTH BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, June 22, 2026— Just over a quarter of U.S. youth ages 6-11 and 14% of youth ages 12-17 meet the recommendation of at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day, according to the American Heart Association's 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Update. That's why the American Heart Association and the (National Football League) are helping students build healthier habits early through NFL PLAY 60.
Today more than 100 sixth-grade students from Robert Fulton Elementary School in North Bergen, New Jersey participated in today's NFL PLAY 60 event at North Bergen Recreation Center, where New York Giants quarterback Jameis Winston joined in a series of interactive drills, supported by USA Football, designed to make movement engaging and accessible. Students rotated through activity stations focused on movement, teamwork and skill-building, reinforcing how physical activity can be both fun and foundational to lifelong wellness.
"This summer the World Cup is bringing people together, and we want to multiply that energy by collaborating both football communities for maximum impact," said Winston, a Heisman Trophy winner, national champion and former No. 1 overall NFL draft pick. " Through NFL PLAY 60, this initiative is about helping kids stay active, build healthy habits and see how sports can unite and inspire the next generation."
What is the NFL Play 60?
The NFL PLAY 60 initiative encourages children to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day to support both immediate and long-term physical and mental health.
"Programs like NFL PLAY 60 help us meet young people where they are—with experiences that make physical activity engaging and sustainable," said Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association. "Together with the NFL, we are helping build healthier futures by making daily movement a priority for every child."
The National Football League and the American Heart Association have partnered since 2006 to bring physical activity to life for young people through school and community-based programming. The initiative is rooted in the Heart Association's physical activity guidelines, which recommend at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity daily for children. Research shows that regular movement supports cardiovascular health while also improving focus, stress management and classroom performance.
To help overcome common barriers such as limited time, space or weather, NFL PLAY 60 also offers the NFL PLAY 60 Exercise Library, featuring short, on-demand videos from all 32 NFL teams. These resources make it easier for educators, families and caregivers to incorporate physical activity throughout the day—whether in the classroom, at home or in the community.
Today's event is part of the broader NFL PLAY 60 movement, which reaches millions of youth nationwide through school programs, community events and digital tools—reinforcing the importance of daily physical activity for lifelong health.
More information, including resources and grant opportunities, is available at heart.org/NFLPLAY60.
