NFL PLAY 60 and Kids Heart Challenge Unite to Promote Student Physical Activity and Mental Wellness

The American Heart Association and National Football League, in collaboration with its 32 NFL clubs, are integrating the NFL PLAY 60 physical activity and mental wellness program with the Association's Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge school programs. This expanded initiative supports evidence-based guidance showing that active students learn better, focus more, think more clearly, and handle stress more effectively according to the American Heart Association.

The partnership, now in its 19th season, builds on the organizations' shared commitment to helping children develop healthy habits and reduce sedentary behaviors. The collaboration incorporates the American Heart Association's physical activity guidelines recommending that children get at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily. The combined programs reach over 10 million families annually through school-based initiatives that have been operating for nearly 50 years.

New this year is the NFL PLAY 60 Family Challenge, which encourages families to engage in physical activity together at home, combining quality time with wellness priorities. As part of Kids Heart Challenge, students and families will learn Hands-Only CPR through the Finn's Mission learning module, supported by an introduction video from Damar Hamlin, cardiac arrest survivor and Buffalo Bills safety.

Students completing Hands-Only CPR instruction will earn entries for two tickets to Super Bowl LXI at SoFi Stadium, with five individual winners selected and five participating schools receiving $10,000 fitness equipment makeovers. The expanded initiative also includes a $350,000 grant program for schools focusing on physical activity, FLAG football, recess, and inclusive physical education, with applications available year-round at heart.org/NFLPLAY60.

Returning this season is the NFL PLAY 60 Exercise Library, featuring two-to-three minute on-demand exercise videos from all 32 NFL teams with players, legends, cheerleaders, and mascots. These resources help parents, teachers, and caregivers provide physical activity opportunities when outdoor play isn't possible or when students need movement breaks to refocus in the classroom. The program's expansion represents a significant step in addressing both physical health and mental wellness needs of youth through evidence-based approaches that support academic performance and long-term health outcomes.