New data from the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that nearly one-third (31%) of adults globally—around 1.8 billion people—failed to meet recommended physical activity levels in 2022. This marks a concerning increase of 5 percentage points in physical inactivity from 2010 to 2022.
If this trend persists, inactivity levels could rise to 35% by 2030, derailing global targets to reduce physical inactivity. WHO advises adults to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week. Insufficient physical activity elevates the risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and certain cancers.
The research, conducted by WHO and academic partners, was published in The Lancet Global Health. “These findings highlight a lost opportunity to reduce cancer, heart disease, and improve mental well-being through increased physical activity,” stated Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. He called for renewed commitments and bold actions, including stronger policies and increased funding, to counter this trend.
High rates of inactivity were reported in the high-income Asia Pacific region (48%) and South Asia (45%). Other regions showed inactivity levels ranging from 28% in high-income Western countries to 14% in Oceania.
Significant disparities exist between genders and age groups. Globally, 34% of women are inactive compared to 29% of men, with some countries showing a 20 percentage point difference. Additionally, adults over 60 are less active, emphasizing the need to promote physical activity among older populations.
“Physical inactivity is a silent threat to global health,” warned Dr. Rüdiger Krech, WHO Director of Health Promotion. He stressed the importance of innovative approaches to motivate physical activity, considering age, environment, and cultural backgrounds, to reduce noncommunicable diseases.
Despite these challenges, nearly half of the world’s countries have shown improvement over the past decade, with 22 countries on track to meet the global target of reducing inactivity by 15% by 2030.
WHO urges countries to strengthen policies promoting physical activity through grassroots sports, active transportation, and community recreation. “Promoting physical activity requires a whole-of-society approach,” said Dr. Fiona Bull, Head of the WHO Unit for Physical Activity. Partnerships between government and nongovernmental stakeholders and increased investment in innovative approaches are essential to reach the least active populations and reduce inequalities in physical activity access
