ACE Introduces the New 7 Core Drivers of Healthy Living

Framework provides a practical, research-based way to help people build the meaningful, sustainable habits that support long-term well-being

The American Council on Exercise (ACE) announces the ACE 7 Core Drivers of Healthy Living, a new, evidence-based philosophy designed to help health and exercise professionals more effectively support individuals in building sustainable, whole-person focused health. Grounded in behavior-change science and lifestyle medicine, this framework defines seven interconnected lifestyle behaviors that meaningfully influence long-term well-being. 

The ACE 7 Core Drivers of Healthy Living provide a clear, accessible roadmap for understanding and improving the daily habits that matter most: 

1. Move More, Move Well – Engage in regular physical activity and exercise that supports strength, mobility and long-term vitality.  

2. Nourish Your Body – Choose balanced, healthy nutrition patterns that fuel daily living and overall well-being.  

3. Prioritize Restorative Sleep – Get quality sleep that promotes recovery, cognitive function, emotional balance and immune health.  

4. Strengthen Your Stress Resilience – Use effective coping skills and strategies that support emotional well-being and adaptability.  

5. Build Supportive Connections – Cultivate positive relationships, community and belonging that enhance motivation and health.  

6. Make Safer, Informed Choices – Make decisions that reduce health risks and promote long-term well-being.   

7. Cultivate Purpose and a Growth Mindset – Clarify personal purpose and values, and foster a mindset that supports consistency, resilience and lasting behavior change.  

   
   

“The 7 Core Drivers represent an important evolution in how ACE supports both professionals and the public,” said Cedric X. Bryant, PhD, FACSM, ACE chief executive officer.  “Health is shaped by the dynamic interaction of many behaviors. This framework gives professionals a practical, research-based way to help people build the meaningful, sustainable habits that truly support long-term well-being.” 

The new philosophy reflects growing demand for support that extends beyond physical activity alone to include stress management, sleep, daily routines, and mindset. The ACE 7 Core Drivers provides health and exercise professionals with a shared language and structure to guide more impactful lifestyle conversations.

The framework also emphasizes the interconnected nature of healthy behaviors. Progress in one area, such as improving sleep or increasing physical activity, often creates positive ripple effects across others, accelerating motivation and overall progress toward health goals. Unlike frameworks that address well-being in isolated categories, the ACE 7 Core Drivers purposefully reinforce how each driver influences the others, with a special emphasis on how physical activity both supports and is supported by the other drivers. 

“We developed the ACE 7 Core Drivers to reflect what we hear every day from professionals and the communities they serve,” said Sabrena Jo, PhD, senior director of science and education. “Health and exercise professionals can better serve their clients when they give guidance on the many factors that make up a healthy lifestyle including exercise, sleep, stress, connection, purpose, and safer daily choices. This philosophy unites those needs into one accessible approach.” 

A central message behind the 7 Drivers is that progress, not perfection, is what leads to lasting lifestyle change. 

“Every healthy action counts,” said Dr. Bryant. “Even small steps such as an extra walk, a healthier food choice, or a moment of reflection can help people feel better, stronger, and more in control of their overall well-being.”