Key Facts and Recommendations for Physical Activity

The global levels of physical inactivity are on the rise, with nearly one third of the world’s adult population not meeting the recommended levels of physical activity, according to a recent study by the World Health Organization (WHO). This lack of physical activity can have significant negative impacts on health, contributing to an increased risk of noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes, as well as symptoms of depression and anxiety.

In children and adolescents, physical inactivity can hinder healthy growth and development, leading to issues with bone health, muscle development, and cognitive function. Shockingly, 80% of adolescents do not meet the recommended levels of physical activity, highlighting a concerning trend that needs to be addressed.

To combat the rise in physical inactivity, the WHO has set global targets to reduce levels of inactivity by 10% by 2025 and 15% by 2030. Failure to reduce these levels could result in significant costs to public healthcare systems, with an estimated cost of approximately US$ 27 billion per year between 2020 and 2030.

The WHO emphasizes the importance of physical activity for overall health and well-being, stating that any amount of physical activity is better than none. Regular physical activity can improve physical fitness, mental health, and reduce the risk of various health conditions. To help individuals meet the recommended levels of physical activity, the WHO provides guidelines for different age groups and populations.

Implementing effective policies to increase levels of physical activity requires a collective effort across government departments, including health, transport, education, and urban planning, as well as engagement from non-governmental organizations and stakeholders. By promoting, enabling, and encouraging physical activity for all, countries can work towards reducing the global levels of physical inactivity and improving public health outcomes.