Clap 4 Health Month is observed in January and this initiative is quite an exciting and fulfilling one. We spend a lot more time doing activities that require little to no physical exertion, and this month is all about raising awareness for physical activity and the overall benefits that getting involved in activity, no matter how small it may seem, can be for your health and longevity. Founded by Shape Up Us in 2018, the month-long movement hopes to prevent obesity in children and adults across the United States.
History of Clap 4 Health Month
You’d be forgiven for thinking that the global fitness movement is a recent societal expression of our need to stay healthy and fit, in a response to social media marketing and the desire to “look the part,” but the truth is that physical activity, for the sake of health and fitness, has long been a part of human society. It is only in the last century, however, that the “culture” of fitness centers and workout stations has grabbed headlines and become a rather vocal part of society.
For thousands of years, physical activity as a means to improve one’s health has been a regular practice. While some argue that the need to exercise today is a result of our industrialized world and that previously human beings engaged in physical labor and did not need to exercise, this isn’t an accurate assessment. Archaeological records show that the pre-industrialized western societies enjoyed getting active for the sake of being active, and as far back as 3000 B.C., the Chinese also enjoyed honing their physical strength outside of their work duties.
But, the industrial revolution has softened the need for billions to involve themselves in any form of exercise. Things have become easier for us as a species and most jobs require no physical activity. Over the last few decades, this has given rise to a massive influx in obesity rates across the globe with the USA being home to the highest percentage of obesity rates, where 36.2% of the population falls within the medical definition of obesity.
The rise in numbers can be attributed to the growth in processed foods, unhealthy eating habits, and a lack of physical activity. In 1980, the obesity percentage in the States was 13.4% but rose dramatically from there; in 2008, 34.3% of the population was considered obese.
Although the numbers have remained rather steady since then, there is a global push to lower the percentage of obese individuals within populations as the health risks that come with this physical state can be life-threatening.
Clap 4 Health Month timeline
Mcdonald's begins to open franchises across America and the rise of the fast-food diner begins to take hold of families across the nation.
Marketing practices relating to the food industry change drastically, and the value of physical activity is diminished within households.
The Campbell Soup Company invents the microwavable dinner tray, cutting meal preparation times to a few minutes.
The end of the US government-funded Presidential Fitness Program and Test.
Clap 4 Health Month FAQs
Can I lose weight just by clapping?
Yes, the recommended number of claps per day to make a change is 1,500.
Can I do something besides clapping to support?
Yes, clapping is essentially a gateway exercise to improving your physical fitness and health. If you’re capable of doing more, then definitely do it.
How do you know if you’re obese?
Depending on your nationality, there is a basic equation that considers certain aspects of your physicality. In the U.S. if your BMI is 30.0 or higher, you are considered obese.
How to Observe Clap 4 Health Month
Clap your hands
This is the goal for this month: to engage in a simple, low-energy activity that makes you feel good about yourself while burning calories. Think of interesting things that you could do while clapping to get yourself moving.
Do something active
If you’re a little more willing to go beyond clapping, use this month to prioritize physical activity. Get yourself motivated and go out and sweat some calories.
Think of ways you can improve
Clap 4 Health Month is about clapping, feeling positive, and losing calories. That doesn’t mean that physical activity is your only option. Have a look at how you can make a difference in your physical health, whether that’s through diet or activity.
5 Facts About Diet And Fitness You Should Know
Clapping is good for you
The action of clapping releases endorphins and makes you feel positive; it's why we clap as a species, and it genuinely makes us feel good to clap with a crowd.
Presidential Intervention
In 1966 President Kennedy established the Presidential Fitness Test for all ages throughout the U.S.
Eating out is a major trend
In major metros across the U.S., many families and individuals prefer to eat out rather than cook their food, with some cities averaging five meals out per week.
Gym culture is taking over
In the mid-80s physical health was commercialized, and since then has become a massive source of economic growth, with the global gym industry worth just under $100 billion.
Your physical health and earning potential
A 2012 study from the Journal of Labor Research found that individuals who exercised regularly enjoyed a 6-10% higher wage than their less active colleagues.
Why Clap 4 Health Month is Important
It's a worthy cause
We gladly support any initiative that improves the health and quality of life of any group or individual. It's a great cause, and a great reason to get in shape.
We love an encore
According to Clap 4 Health, 1,500 claps per day can lower your risk for cardiovascular-related health problems, like hypertension. Isn’t this a perfect reason to clap today?
It’s about fighting an epidemic
With such high obesity rates in the U.S., and globally too, obesity across the world has led to the problem being labeled an epidemic. It is a high-risk health concern for minors, and when we’re looking to the children to lead the future, we’ve got to do better for them.
Clap 4 Health Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 1 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | January 1 | Thursday |
| 2027 | January 1 | Friday |
| 2028 | January 1 | Saturday |
| 2029 | January 1 | Monday |
Log In With Google