Global Estimates of Physical Activity in Adults

More than a quarter of the world’s adult population were insufficiently active, in 2016, putting them at greater risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, dementia and some cancers, according to the first study to estimate global activity trends over time. The study was undertaken by researchers from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and published in the Lancet Global Health journal.  is based on self-reported activity levels including activity at work, home, for transport, and during leisure time.

In 2016 around one in three women and one in four men worldwide were not reaching the recommended levels of physical activity to stay healthy

The estimates demonstrate that there has been little progress in improving physical activity levels between 2001 and 2016. If current trends continue the 2025 global activity target of a 10% relative reduction in insufficient physical activity will not be met.

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