Physical activity is important for health

Physical activity is an important determinant of health. It is associated with the development of many of the major non-communicable diseases. It has become increasingly clear that physical inactivity is a global health issue .

Health Enhancing Physical Activity is a form of activity that benefits health.

Physical activity is defined as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that result in energy expenditure above resting level. Health Enhancing Physical Activity is defined as any form of physical activity that benefits health and fitness without undue harm or risk.

In Europe, about one third of the population is sufficiently physically active

For EU Member States, the results of the Eurobarometer 2002 indicate that 29% of the population has sufficient physical activity. Beyond this survey, data on levels of physical activity in the European countries are difficult to compare. Harmonised measures and indicators are still in development.

Physical activity can reduce the risk on several chronic diseases.

Physical activity has beneficial effects on onset and progression of several chronic diseases and conditions. Among others, it reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, overweight and obesity, type 2 diabetes, colon cancer, breast cancer and depression. It promotes musculoskeletal health and psychological well-being.

WHO estimates 1.9 million deaths due to inactivity globally.

The World Health Report of 2002 estimated the prevalence of physical inactivity among adults worldwide as being 17%. A range of 11% to 24% between WHO’s subregions has been reported. An annual 1.9 million deaths were estimated to be associated with insufficient physical activity, via ischaemic heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, colon cancer and breast cancer as the specified causes of death.

Urban environment and daily transport influence physical activity.

The urban built environment and transport patterns are important barriers or promoters of daily physical activity. Furthermore, socioeconomic factors, workplace conditions and personal factors influence levels of daily physical activity.

WHO states one of the most general recommendations.

The WHO’s Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health has formulated the most comprehensive recommendations for physical activity. It recommends that individuals engage in adequate levels of physical activity throughout their lives. Different types and amounts of physical activity are required for different health outcomes.

The Strategy for Europe on Nutrition, Overweight and Obesity related health issues outlines principles for action in Europe.

The White Paper A Strategy for Europe on Nutrition, Overweight and Obesity related health issues outlines an integrated approach for Europe to improve healthy nutrition and physical activity. It was published in 2007. Additionally, the Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health describes in more detail actions and policies to be implemented at member state level. European and International Networks promote physical activity by summarising further evidence and examples of best practice on interventions and policies.