2009 Exercise Tax Credit

We, the undersigned, believe that "Prevention" is the only concept that will truly reform our Health Care System. Prevention creates a win-win situation. When citizens take responsible care of their bodies they benefit individually, and society at large is relieved of the costs associated with an unfit population and preventable chronic diseases. The result is a happier, healthier and more prosperous nation!

The US Department of Health and Human Services recognized the benefits of regular physical exercise toward individual health when they wrote the 2008 Physical Guidelines for Americans ( http://www.health.gov/paguidelines/guidelines/default.aspx) The leading US medical team who authored this manuscript suggest therein 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week for most adults and 1 hour per day for children.

Now it is time for the U.S. Government to back up its advice with something tangible like a tax credit to encourage Americans to begin or continue an exercise program. The government would be spending pennies to save dollars!

For instance, citizens could take a $50 yearly tax credit for exercising an average of 30 minutes per week throughout each calendar year; $150 for exercising an average of 90 minutes per week; $250 for exercising an average of 120 minutes a week; and $500 for exercising an average of 150 minutes or more each week. These credits would be based on the honor system (with exercise logs being the proof) or gyms and other activity centers validating attendance.

By signing this petition below we realize that we are setting an example for our children and simultaneously saving them the legacy cost of our leisure!

In addition, Mr. Obama and all members of Congress, we challenge you to be Mentors for us and for our children by introducing this bill and exercising regularly and openly yourselves!