New York Giants Jameis Winston leads NFL PLAY 60 day to boost youth physical activity

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 NFL (National Football League) are helping students build healthier habits early through NFL PLAY 60.

Today's 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.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. The organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public's health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X, or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1

About NFL PLAY 60

NFL PLAY 60 is the league's national youth health and wellness platform. Now in its 20th season, the initiative empowers millions of youth to get physically active for at least 60 minutes a day, supporting programs and resources so that kids everywhere can lead a healthy lifestyle. Alongside the NFL's 32 clubs and partners, the PLAY 60 movement will continue to serve and motivate the next generation of youth to get active and PLAY 60. For more information, visit NFL.com/PLAY60.

For Media Inquiries:

American Heart Association: Linzy Cotaya: [email protected]

National Football League: Ian Martin, [email protected]

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org