U.K. — The U.K.'s four Chief Medical Officers issued updated physical activity guidelines, recommending 150 minutes of activity per week for good health. The guidelines emphasize that all activity contributes to health benefits.

The updated guidelines state that increasing physical activity can improve health and wellbeing, with small increases yielding positive health impacts for those not currently active. Everyone benefits from physical activity, including individuals with long-term conditions, regardless of their current fitness level. Those who are currently doing the least activity experience the biggest positive health changes when they begin.

Regular physical activity is associated with improved learning and better mental health in children and young people. For adults, physical activity protects against chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and various mental health problems. The guidelines specify that activities like walking, cycling, dancing, sports, and taking the stairs all count as physical activity.

Isabel Oliver, Chief Medical Officer for Wales, said, "The evidence is clear: being physically active is important for our health and every little bit counts." Oliver added, "Going from doing no activity to doing some is one of the best things you can do for your health." The guidelines also suggest that lasting change in exercise habits is most probable when exercise is enjoyable, useful, or integrated into an everyday routine. Additionally, participating in a range of activities including muscle strengthening, balance, and flexibility exercises is important.

Nerys Evans, Deputy Minister for Public and Preventative Health, said, "These new guidelines are a reminder that every step counts to improve our health." She added, "Helping people move more is central to our cross government preventative health approach." In Pontypool, a weightlifting club for individuals over 60 years old helps members improve strength and socialize. This club is part of Torfaen Council's Thrive programme, which connects to the wider council initiative known as The Deal.