An underlying cause of this is the modern lifestyle, which has replaced physical activity with sedentary ones. They identified increased screen time, urbanization of communities and the rise in automation of previously manual tasks as examples of societal changes that are leading to lower levels of physical activity.
“All these trends are contributing to a generation of inactive children and putting them on a dangerous path”, mentioned a senior scientist on the research team.
Of the countries evaluated in the study, the researchers found that those with the most active children and youth overall, used different approaches to achieve success. These include a “walking to school practice” in Japan, while in Zimbabwe it was “active transportation” instead of being driven around in cars.
Childhood is a time of life when lifelong habits are cultivated. It is important to teach children about the importance of an active lifestyle. Societies should also promote a culture of physical activity and provide amenities to support it.
