Nearly 50 per cent of Indian population is physically inactive – Study!

Nearly 50 per cent of Indian population is physically inactive – Study!

KAKALI DAS

Exercising – the one thing that we all seem to have a love-hate relationship with. According to a new study, this relationship is not working out, quite literally, because the world is not exercising enough.

Nearly one-third (31%) of adults globally are physically unfit, which is approximately 1.8 billion people. That is, they do not meet the global recommendations of at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week. 

This is an increase of 5 percentage points between 2010 and 2022. If this trend continues, the proportion of adults not meeting recommended levels of physical activity is projected to rise to 35% by 2030.

While the numbers vary across nations, the situation is particularly concerning in India. According to a data, half of the Indian population is physically inactive.

Imagine this scenario: you want to exercise regularly, so you set a goal. However, when the time comes to get moving, you don’t. Instead, your mind conjures up all sorts of excuses—like feeling too tired, it being too hot, or not wanting to spend money on a gym membership. We’ve all been there. The excuses are abundant, but the outcome remains the same.

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A new study is out, a pooled analysis of 507 population-based surveys with 5.7 million participants, and it says, “Nearly a third of adults globally (31.3%; 1.8 billion) were insufficiently physically active in 2022, an increase from 23.4% (900 million) in 2000.”

Inactivity rates vary widely between countries. For instance, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), 66% of adults don’t get enough physical activity, whereas in Malawi, the figure is under 3%. Generally, the highest rates of physical inactivity have been observed in the Asia-Pacific region and South Asia, followed by North Africa and West Asia.

Meanwhile, Oceania has the lowest levels of physical inactivity, followed by Sub-Saharan Africa and Europe.

So, there are variations across nations. In India, half of the population doesn’t get enough physical activity. What’s even more alarming is the sharp rise in inactivity prevalence in India—from 22% in 2000 to 33% in 2010 to 49% in 2022. If this trend continues unchecked, the figure is projected to reach 60% by 2030, significantly increasing the risk of diseases.

“Exercise acts like a magic pill: it lowers blood pressure, reduces the risk of cancer, diabetes, strokes, heart attacks, and dementia. It also helps us age better, promotes happiness, and fosters hopefulness.”

According to the WHO, the global estimate of the cost of physical inactivity to public health care systems between 2020 and 2030 is about US$ 300 billion (approximately US$ 27 billion per year) if levels of physical inactivity are not reduced.

Exercise acts like a magic pill: it lowers blood pressure, reduces the risk of cancer, diabetes, strokes, heart attacks, and dementia. It also helps us age better, promotes happiness, and fosters hopefulness.

In whatever form and duration, exercise enhances our lives. So, how much exercise is sufficient? According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week. This can include activities like walking, cycling, household chores, or alternatively, at least 75 minutes of vigorous exercise such as running or playing a sport.

For many, meeting these guidelines is challenging, which is why we have a love-hate relationship with exercise. This relationship isn’t working out because neither are we. How can we change this? By addressing our excuses for not exercising more seriously. Experts emphasize that mental barriers shouldn’t be dismissed as mere excuses, as this self-criticism can hinder our goal achievement.

Instead, viewing reasons for not exercising as genuine obstacles helps us devise a plan—a solution-oriented approach. For example, if you feel you don’t have enough time to work out, try starting with small, manageable steps.

According to data, adults spend an average of 35 hours per week on social media, indicating that time is available. Another common reason might be reluctance to spend money on a gym membership.

However, it’s important to note that you don’t need a gym to stay fit. You can try stretching exercises, aerobics such as jumping jacks, planks, push-ups, and sports that don’t require gym equipment.

If it’s too hot to work out, consider swapping your run for a brisk walk. If it’s too cold for outdoor exercise, try indoor activities like core strengthening exercises or yoga.

Physical fitness is essential for everyone, regardless of age or body type. Engaging in regular exercise and physical activities is crucial for maintaining good health throughout all stages of life, from childhood to adolescence and adulthood to elderly adulthood. It is important to stay active daily to promote overall well-being.

It is important to stay active daily to promote overall well-being. There are numerous solutions, but whatever you decide, find enjoyment in movement. When you enjoy exercising, you’re more likely to stick with it.

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