Physical activity

The health benefits of physical activity are well recognized. Particular for children's physical and mental health physical activity is important. Physical activity can take place in many settings. For example, at school, during transport, leisure activities and at home during daily living. The WHO's recommendations are that children should have at least 60 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity a day - but a lot of children don't. WHO's European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative shows that only a small proportion currently meet this recommendation.

The WHO Regional Office in Europe has complied factsheets on the 28 European Union countries' experiences, policy development and action in the area of physical activity. The factsheets show specific areas of focus in terms of monitoring and surveillance based on a number of core indicators, as well as policies and action regarding physical activity. They also summarize the current status of physical activity promotion in the health and education sectors and present success stories and examples of good practice.

Find the factsheets and extra materiale on physical activity.