Some key information and statistics about our bodies and activity

How has physical activity participation changed across time?

In 2022:

• 83% of adolescents aged 15–17 did not meet the physical activity component of the guidelines; 80% did not do enough muscle-strengthening activities.

• 37% of adults aged 18–64 did not meet the physical activity component of the guidelines; 73% did not do enough muscle-strengthening activities.

• 57% of adults aged 65 and over did not meet the physical activity component of the guidelines; 84% did not do enough muscle-strengthening activities.

https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/physical-activity/physical-activity#changed-over-time

Physical inactivity is the ninth leading preventable cause of ill health and premature death.

‘Physical activity’ is any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure (WHO 2022). Low levels of physical activity are a major risk factor for chronic conditions. People who are not active enough have a greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and dementia.

Being physically active improves mental and musculoskeletal health and reduces other risk factors such as overweight and obesity, high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol. Physical activity can also improve symptoms, delay, or halt the progression of a number of conditions, or the onset of associated diseases and complications (Pedersen and Saltin 2015).

https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/physical-activity/physical-activity