Nuffield Health’s fourth annual Healthier Nation Index survey of over 8,000 people found that while physical activity levels improved slightly in 2023 compared to 2022, almost 75% of respondents are still not meeting the World Health Organization’s guidelines with the average amount of activity per week at 83 minutes compared to the recommended level of 150 minutes.
The survey also revealed concerning trends in fitness levels, especially among women. 31% of women felt their fitness had improved, but 33% considered themselves less fit than the previous year. Men fared slightly better, with 38% reporting feeling fitter and 26% feeling less fit.
In response to these findings, Nuffield Health is calling on all political parties to commit to a National Movement Strategy to promote physical activity and embed it into every aspect of society. The charity believes this is crucial to offset the nation’s ongoing health crisis and ensure physical activity is prioritised.
Nuffield Health Ambassador Dame Kelly Holmes emphasised the need for more awareness and understanding of how exercise benefits both body and mind. She recommends breaking down physical activity into enjoyable and manageable forms to increase motivation and make it a sustainable habit.
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