Physical inactivity is a key risk factor for noncommunicable diseases, and the fourth leading cause of early death globally. Recent estimates show that approximately 31% of the world’s population does not get enough physical activity to protect their health. The World Health Organization recommends that adults should get the equivalent of two and a half hours of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each week. Children should get even more, at least one hour a day. For those who want to maintain or reduce their weight, more activity may be needed. Walking, cycling, swimming, sports, and active recreation and play are all ways to be active, but there are many more.

The health benefits of physical activity are well established and include a lower risk of noncommunicable diseases including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, and breast and colon cancer. Additionally, physical activity has positive effects on mental health, delays the onset of dementia, and can help maintain a healthy weight. Too much inactivity on the other hand has negative impacts on health, health systems, the environment, the economy, community well-being and quality of life.

Globally, 81% of adolescents aged 11-17 years were insufficiently physically active in 2016. Adolescent girls were less active than adolescent boys, with 85% vs. 78% not getting at least the recommended 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day. Higher rates of inactivity are partly due to leisure time spent sitting – watching television, playing video games, and using the computer. Physical activity associated with work, tasks at home, and transportation has also declined due to economic growth, technological advancements, and social changes.

This reinforces the fact that staying active is not purely an individual choice – it is largely influenced by the socioeconomic context and surrounding environment where we live. People are more likely to be active, for example, if they live near parks or playgrounds, in neighbourhoods with sidewalks or bike paths, or close enough to work, school, or shopping to safely walk or cycle. People are less likely to be active if they live in sprawling suburbs designed for driving or in neighbourhoods without parks or recreation opportunities.