Why more movement in society?

Research and knowledge - Profits

Children and young people are now sedentary for most of their waking hours.
Public Health Agency 2024, Article 24105

Research and knowledge

We are moving less than ever

Never before have we known so much about the importance of physical activity - yet we are moving less than ever. Everyday life is more sedentary for both children and adults. Only 22% of girls and 44% of boys reach the recommendation of one hour of daily physical activity and few adults reach the Public Health Agency's target of 150 minutes a week. Many people no longer develop basic movement skills such as running, jumping and throwing, limiting their ability and desire to be active. This creates a disconnect from what our bodies are made for - with serious health consequences. To reverse the negative trend of sedentary behavior, knowledge is not enough - we need to create a society where movement is natural, enjoyable and accessible. Where people meet in the environment they are in and have an inner drive to be active - because only then can we build a healthier, happier and more resilient population.

Collaboration - a key component for change
No single actor can create a movement-rich society. Reaching all individuals and all generations requires cross-sectoral collaboration at multiple levels. Movement needs to be higher on the agenda and needs to be integrated into missions, structures and processes. This is clearly stated in the Final Report of the Committee for the Promotion of Increased Physical Activity, Every movement counts - how do we create a society that promotes physical activity, SOU 2023:29, which you can read here. Make a Move addresses several of the conclusions highlighted in the final report. We strive for more actors to realize the importance of physical literacy and contribute to a physically active society in a wide range of different arenas. Together we can make a real difference.

Profits

Physical activity promotes health, reduces costs and improves quality of life

Physical activity has many positive effects for both individuals and society. Movement has a strong positive impact on health and reduces the risk of many diseases. The enjoyment of movement and positive experiences associated with physical activity increase well-being. In schools, increased physical activity is directly linked to better concentration, memory and academic performance. It also strengthens mental health by reducing stress and anxiety. Providing adapted activities also promotes gender equality and reduces gender gaps. Socio-economically, increased physical activity saves billions every year through reduced healthcare costs and increased productivity. In addition, everyday physical activity contributes to environmental and social sustainability and increased participation in society.

Voices from the workshop

Get insights from some of the Make a Move initiatives

Staff at schools and kindergartens involved in Make a Move talk about the effects they have seen from increasing children's physical activity.

Children enrolled in the weight management and diabetes team at Skaraborg Hospital get the chance to exercise and have fun every week at Friskis&Svettis.

Lisa Holmström Gustafsson, Head of Leisure in Lidköping Municipality, explains how they went about creating Summer Move, the activity area that attracted 16,000 visitors in its first summer.

Mats Liljenberg, Head of Culture and Leisure in the City of Mölndal, talks about how the city of Mölndal has changed since its time as a pilot municipality in Make a Move.