Epidemiology

Global Physical Activity Inequalities: A Modern Framework for Public Health

Surveillance

• Expand physical activity surveillance beyond leisure-time activity to include occupational and transport-related domains.
• Collect data on socioeconomic status, gender, and other intersecting social identities alongside physical activity measures.
• Monitor physical activity security indicators, including access to safe, affordable, and enjoyable physical activity opportunities.

Research

• Investigate the biological mechanisms linking physical activity to immunity, mental health, and cancer prevention/control.
• Conduct intersectional research to understand how multiple social identities shape physical activity patterns and health outcomes.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of interventions designed to address physical activity inequalities and promote physical activity security.

Promotion

• Shift messaging from solely focusing on exercise for weight loss to emphasizing the broader health and wellbeing benefits of physical activity.
• Develop interventions that address the social and environmental determinants of physical activity, particularly for marginalized populations.
• Advocate for policies that promote physical activity security, such as investments in active transportation infrastructure and safe workplaces.

Policy

• Integrate physical activity considerations into all relevant policy areas, including urban planning, transportation, education, and healthcare.
• Prioritize interventions that reduce inequalities in access to physical activity opportunities.
• Promote cross-sectoral collaboration to create supportive environments for physical activity.