Summary: This call to action from the American Medical Association asks all physicians to actively prescribe physical activity to their patients. The epidemiological evidence is used to justify the recommendation. Only 34% of patients currently receive counselling for physical activity. The number should be much higher. A series of strategies for including physical activity counselling into patient care are included.

Practical Significance: This formal call to action issued by a group of prestigious academicians and scientists encourages all physicians to counsel their patients to engage in physical activity on a regular basis. Suggestions for the use of smart phone apps are also offered. This is a significant boost for wellness programs and allows us to formally leverage the expectations of employees that their primary care practitioners (PCPs) should be actively encouraging regular physical activity. Use this article to help employees understand the importance of physical activity.