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200330 https://hdl.handle.net/2286/R.2.N.200330 http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0 2025-05 39 pages Atwater, Hannah Wallace, Danielle Hoffman, Julie Barrett, The Honors College School of Criminology and Criminal Justice Physical activity has always been crucial to the health and wellbeing of humans. As a result of the various research on the benefits of physical activity, the general public has great access to opportunities for physical activity. Unfortunately, the same can not be said for incarcerated individuals. Currently, jails and prisons do not provide adequate knowledge on the benefits of physical activity, nor do they provide adequate opportunities to engage in physical activity. Incarcerated individuals experience both physical and mental health concerns at a higher rate than the general public. These health concerns are exacerbated by a struggling correctional healthcare system that cannot account for the prevalence of both chronic and acute health issues in jails and prisons. These health concerns not only affect incarcerated individuals, but the communities that many of these individuals will ultimately return to. Current research suggests that the most prevalent health concerns in jails and prisons can be prevented, treated, or addressed through consistent physical activity. Although access to physical activity does not make up for inadequate healthcare, it can be a tool for incarcerated individuals to improve their health prior to seeking medical care. Compared to other correctional programs intended to improve health, wellbeing, or reduce recidivism, physical activity is more cost effective, has more generalization, and is more accessible both during and after incarceration. Promoting physical activity can help jails and prisons improve the health and wellbeing of incarcerated individuals, rather than contributing to the health concerns and disparities prevalent in the United States. Criminal Justice Criminal Justice Reform Incarceration Correctional Reform Exercise Fitness Health Wellness Inmate Health The Benefits of Physical Activity For Incarcerated Individuals