The UK Chief Medical Officers have released refreshed Physical Activity Guidelines, reinforcing that every movement counts. The latest evidence shows that even small amounts of regular physical activity can make a real difference to both physical and mental wellbeing.
The updated guidance reinforces scientific evidence of physical activity and sedentary behaviour and that the recommended physical activity levels across all ages to remain accurate. The latest evidence highlights the importance of incorporating strength and balance activities throughout life, including for people taking GLP-1 agonist drugs for weight management or diabetes, and reducing long periods of sitting being beneficial to health.
Chris Boardman, Chair of Sport England, said: “Physical activity is one of the closest things we have to a wonder cure. Whether it's a walk to the shops, a bike ride, a jog or a game of football, moving more improves our physical and mental health, helps us stay independent for longer, and connects us with the people and places around us.
“Making it easier and more enjoyable to be active, especially for those who need it most, has the power to change lives. It strengthens families, communities and, ultimately, our nation. These updated guidelines give people clear, evidence-based advice on what we're aiming for and how to build more movement into everyday life. They will play an important role in helping more people enjoy the benefits of being active, creating a healthier, happier and more resilient nation.”
The Physical Activity Guidelines cover all age groups which consists of older adults, under 5s, children and young people, women during pregnancy and after birth and disabled people.
Regular physical activity plays an important role in reducing the risk of many long-term conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers, while also supporting good mental health and wellbeing.
The guidance additionally recognises that physical activity does not need to take place in long or structured sessions to have a positive impact. Making small changes such as walking or wheeling to the shops, taking the stairs, dancing, gardening, active play, and household tasks can all contribute towards a healthy lifestyle when carried out often.
Andy Taylor, CEO of the Active Partnerships National Organisation, said: "These refreshed guidelines are a reflection of the growing evidence that all movement is beneficial, but they also remind us that the greatest opportunity lies in supporting those people who are currently the least active.
“By listening to communities, understanding the specific barriers that people face in different places, and collaborating with them to find solutions that work for them, we can help more people benefit from being active.
“Across England, the Active Partnerships Network connects and collaborates with partners in different sectors such as health, local government, education, transport, the voluntary sector, as well as community sports organisations and local communities, turning national guidance into local action.
“Together, we can use this evidence and the guidelines to reduce health inequalities, build healthier communities, and ensure more people have the opportunity to lead active lives."
Building activity into everyday routines can help improve health and wellbeing even in small amounts. The new evidence is stronger than ever showing health benefits increase with more time spent active, however the biggest gains in health are in moving from inactivity to any level of activity .
David Gent, CEO at Active Humber, said: “These refreshed UK Chief Medical Officers’ guidelines reinforce a message we see every day across the Humber – that any movement is better than none, and even small increases in physical activity can have a significant impact on health and wellbeing.
"Through our place-based approach, we work with communities and partners to understand local barriers and create opportunities that help people move more. By combining national evidence with local insight, we can reduce health inequalities and support more people across the Humber to lead active lives.”
Every movement counts for better health across the Humber.
Physical activity guidelines: UK Chief Medical Officers' report
