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Alpharetta Today
By the People, for the People
Alpharetta Man Urges Families to Prioritize Youth Sports and Daily Movement
Bryan Zimmerman credits his childhood involvement in sports with building lifelong healthy habits.
Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:19am
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Bryan Zimmerman, a resident of Alpharetta, Georgia, is speaking out about the importance of youth sports and consistent physical activity. Zimmerman, who grew up playing basketball, soccer, and competitive swimming, believes these experiences taught him valuable lessons about discipline, commitment, and personal growth that have stayed with him into adulthood. He is now encouraging families and communities to make movement and sports a priority, citing research that links youth sports participation to improved academic performance, reduced stress, and higher rates of physical activity in adulthood.
Why it matters
Zimmerman's message comes at a time when physical inactivity and sedentary lifestyles are on the rise, particularly among children and adolescents. According to the CDC, only about 24% of children ages 6 to 17 get the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity, and nearly 1 in 5 children and adolescents in the U.S. are affected by obesity. Zimmerman believes that consistent participation in sports and other forms of movement can help address these concerning trends and promote long-term health and well-being.
The details
Zimmerman credits his childhood involvement in sports with instilling important values and habits that have stayed with him throughout his life. He says that swimming, in particular, taught him the importance of personal responsibility and putting in the necessary work to achieve his goals. Zimmerman believes that the structure and commitment required by sports can have a positive impact on children's development, helping them build discipline, time management skills, and a sense of purpose.
- Zimmerman grew up playing basketball, soccer, and competitive swimming in Alpharetta, Georgia.
The players
Bryan Zimmerman
A resident of Alpharetta, Georgia, who grew up playing basketball, soccer, and competitive swimming and now advocates for the importance of youth sports and consistent physical activity.
What they’re saying
“Swimming taught me early that nobody else can do the laps for you. You either put in the work or you don't. That lesson sticks.”
— Bryan Zimmerman
“Sports gave me structure. They gave me something to commit to every week.”
— Bryan Zimmerman
“You can't fake swim practice. You either show up and do the laps, or you fall behind.”
— Bryan Zimmerman
What’s next
Zimmerman encourages families to schedule at least one weekly outdoor activity, support local recreation leagues and school sports programs, replace a portion of daily screen time with physical movement, and lead by example through active lifestyles.
The takeaway
Zimmerman's message highlights the importance of instilling healthy habits and a love of movement in children from a young age. By prioritizing sports, discipline, and consistent physical activity, families can help set their children up for long-term success and well-being.
