New Physical Activity Guidelines highlight health benefits of every movement

The UK Chief Medical Officers have published refreshed Physical Activity Guidelines, confirming that regular movement of any kind can play a significant role in improving both physical and mental health.

Based on the latest scientific evidence on physical activity and sedentary behaviour, the updated guidance maintains existing recommended activity levels for all age groups while placing greater emphasis on the benefits of light-intensity activity and reducing prolonged periods of sitting.

Every movement counts

The refreshed guidance highlights that physical activity does not need to involve lengthy gym sessions or organised sport to make a difference. Everyday activities such as walking to the shops, taking the stairs, gardening, dancing, household chores, wheeling and active play can all contribute to better health when undertaken regularly.

The guidelines encourage people to build movement naturally into their daily routines, making it easier to achieve lasting health benefits.

Focus on strength and balance

A key addition to the guidance is a strengthened focus on maintaining muscle strength and balance throughout life. This is particularly important for older adults and for people taking GLP-1 agonist medications to support weight loss, as maintaining muscle mass is essential for overall health and mobility.

Supporting health at every stage of life

The guidelines cover all stages of life, including:

• Children and young people
• Adults
• Older adults
• Disabled people
• Women during pregnancy and after birth

The updated evidence also strengthens understanding of the positive impact physical activity can have on women's health and wellbeing across different life stages.

Prevention through movement

Regular physical activity remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of long-term health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. It also plays a vital role in supporting good mental health, improving mood and enhancing overall wellbeing.

By encouraging people to incorporate more movement into everyday life, the refreshed guidance supports the government's wider ambition of preventing illness before it develops, helping people live healthier, more active lives.

Key Message

The refreshed guidelines deliver a simple message: every movement matters. Whether it's a short walk, gardening in the backyard, playing with children or taking the stairs instead of the lift, small amounts of activity accumulated throughout the day can have a meaningful impact on health and wellbeing.

YSF CEO, Carl Hawkes said:

“This is fantastic news and such an important reminder that improving our health doesn't have to mean making dramatic changes. I really welcome the emphasis on the idea that every movement counts; whether it's taking a walk, gardening, playing with children, or simply choosing the stairs. These everyday activities are accessible to so many people and can make a real difference to both physical and mental wellbeing.

“A positive, achievable message for everyone: small steps really do add up, and every movement matters.”

Updated Guidelines

Image credit: Sport England