YOUNG adults are becoming less active, with fewer meeting the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (PA) per week, according to a QUT study.
This activity level is essential for maintaining health, improving wellbeing, and reducing the risk of chronic disease and premature death.
Moderate-intensity PA allows for conversation, while vigorous activity makes talking difficult due to heavy breathing.
The study, led by David Abernethy and Associate Professor Toby Pavey from QUT, along with Dr Jason Bennie, analysed data from over 2 million US adults between 2011 and 2019.
It found a steady decline in PA among young adults, an unexpected trend since aging is typically associated with reduced activity.
Researchers suggest increased reliance on digital media and sedentary behaviours may be contributing factors.
Approximately half of U.S. adults met PA guidelines.
Men were more likely to be physically active than women.
Professor Pavey noted gender norms, lack of a female-focused PA culture, and societal beauty standards as possible reasons for the gap.
The study highlighted key groups needing targeted intervention:
• Young adults: countering the post-school PA drop
• Women: reducing the gender disparity
• Lower-educated populations: ensuring access to inclusive PA options
• People with obesity: providing barrier-free, low-impact PA choices
• Individuals with chronic or mental health conditions: integrating PA through GP referrals and community programs
Published in PLOS One, the research underscores the importance of understanding PA trends to inform public health campaigns and drive lifestyle change.