A vision to encourage action on physical activity
The World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry (WFSGI) is calling for urgent action.
”We’ve engineered movement out of life,” says Robbert de Kock, WFSGI Secretary General.
“As a byproduct of technology and modernization—‘Incidental exercise’ is gone and sport and physically active play are marginalized more than ever. Today’s kids are becoming fatally unfit and are the first generation to have a shorter life expectancy than their parents - by 5 years.
"There is a critical window for impact and brain research shows preferences and motivations are shaped early. If we reach children before age 10, they can learn to love physical activity and sports for life. Children who participate in a variety of sports and physically active play will realize a level of benefits that sets them up to thrive for live.”
Physical activity is the solution available and ready to be implemented into society today. All other suggestions such as salt, sugar or fat reductions will need to go through a longer period of consultations and negotiations.
Therefore, Robbert de Kock emphasizes, “it is obvious that the promotion and increase of physical activity combined with some additional messages and actions on a healthy lifestyle would be a first contribution and clear action plan to strengthening the capacity of individuals and populations to make healthier choices and follow lifestyle patterns that foster good health.
"Based on the research of a number of organizations, including the WHO, the recommendation for daily physical activity is 6o minutes (somewhat less for younger children).”
The WFSGI urges everyone to be part of the solution: “It takes global, national, regional and local governing bodies, corporations, schools, civil society, individuals and communities. We therefore have one unifying Vision: To get future generations running, jumping, and kicking to reach their greatest potential. And two Asks that offer the greatest return and that unify and accelerate immediate action: Create early positive experiences for children and integrate physical activity into everyday life. “
More information
Find out more about the health benefits of sport and physical activity
Find out about the relationship between non-communicable diseases and physical inactivity
Activity