150 million Indian adults do not meet WHO physical activity guidelines; women most affected: Study | Health

Despite knowing the many health benefits of physical activity and regular exercise, Indians are leading an inactive lifestyle. According to Dalberg’s State of Sport and Physical Activity (SAPA) report, 155 million Indian adults and 45 million adolescents do not meet the WHO guidelines for leading an active lifestyle. The findings are alarming and draw attention to the lack of focus on sports and physical activity among Indians.

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Also read: 5 surprising health benefits of morning exercise

India’s shocking inactivity

The survey shows that India needs to put in more effort to become an active nation. It further states that even if some people are engaged in physical activity, their movements are not very diverse. The report adds that most people are engaged in walking outside of work and daily chores. Though walking has its benefits, it is not enough to have a healthy body. Around 10% of adults are engaged in sports but not regularly. 66% of adolescents are engaged in sports regularly but their choices are not diverse.

Also read: From Longevity to Weight Loss; 6 Amazing Health Benefits of Regular Exercise

A striking gender gap

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Furthermore, the study adds that the gender gap in sport and physical activity is very severe. On average, girls and women spend less time engaged in physical activity than boys and men. This gender gap is even more severe in urban areas, where a third of girls and women do not meet WHO guidelines. Several factors influence this, from lack of infrastructure to safety and the misconception that physical activity during menstruation and pregnancy is harmful.

Related article: Physical activity may boost learning and health in secondary schools: Study

How can sport and physical activity contribute to overall development in India?

Lack of physical activity is responsible for lower worker productivity, lower educational attainment and health-related illnesses. With the right kind of physical activity, India can achieve better social and national outcomes. According to the study, if the entire population of the country becomes active by 2047, India’s GDP could increase by over INR 15 trillion. It could also help prevent 110 million NCD cases among adults, reduce the number of suicides by 30,000 and save INR 30 trillion in healthcare costs that are typically spent on treating health conditions like obesity, cardiovascular diseases and mental health issues. If physical activity is embedded in the daily lives of the population by 2047, it could also reduce gender disparities and mobilize INR 4.5 trillion in annual spending on sports, the study said.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a physician with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.