International physical activity policy development: a commentary

Abstract

Scientific evidence demonstrates, in different degrees for developing and developed countries, that physical activity is associated with substantial health, economic, and societal benefits. However, for varying environmental, social, and individual reasons, people do not tend to engage in the levels of physical activity that would be beneficial to them. Environmental and policy interventions hold particular promise for promoting physical activity because both are designed to influence large groups. Recent multisectoral actions have increased the visibility of physical activity promotion and its synergism with other important community and national issues. Together, these efforts have created an unprecedented opportunity to advance the development of international physical activity policy.