WHO Guidelines on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour: The Latest Recommendations for Fitness & Health

The physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidelines released by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2020 are a major step forward in helping people to maintain their physical health and well-being. The guidelines provide clear recommendations on how much physical activity is needed for different age groups, as well as advice on reducing time spent sitting down. They have been developed by an expert panel of physiotherapists, public health experts and scientists, and will be of use to everyone from individual exercisers to national governments.

The guidelines are based on the latest evidence and provide a comprehensive framework for physical activity promotion. They aim to increase levels of physical activity globally, with a particular focus on reducing sedentary behaviour and improving health outcomes. The recommendations are also intended to help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
 
The guidelines recommend that adults aged 18-64 should do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity per week. In addition, they should do muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days per week. For children and adolescents aged six to 17 years, the guidelines recommend at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity every day.
 
The guidelines also recommend that adults should reduce their sedentary time and break up long periods of sitting with brief physical activity such as standing or walking. For children and adolescents, the guidelines recommend limiting screen-based recreational activities to no more than two hours per day.
 
The WHO physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidelines are an important resource for anyone looking to improve their physical health and fitness. They provide clear recommendations on how much physical activity is needed for different age groups, as well as advice on reducing time spent sitting down. By following these guidelines, people can significantly improve their health and reduce their risk of chronic disease.
 
Not meeting your recommended exercise levels? Starting with a check in with one of our Tarragindi Physiotherapists can be a great place to start. Your physiotherapist can look at any barriers to movement (both physical and lifestyle related) and help you to come up with a plan that will get you moving but also keep you safe!

Our Clinical classes and Pilates classes are also a great way to incorporate these recommendations into your lifestyle. Exercise offers a host of benefits for both your physical and mental health - it is never too late to get started!
 
Feel free to get in touch with one of our friendly team at our Tarragindi Physio clinic by calling 07 3706 3407 or emailing us at [email protected]. We would love to work with you to help you become your healthiest self!