The UK Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) have published refreshed physical activity guidelines, with evidence that regular movement can have significant benefits for people's physical and mental health.

The guidance reflects the latest scientific evidence on physical activity and sedentary behaviour and found that the existing recommended activity levels across all age groups remain accurate.

There is an emphasis on the health benefits of light-intensity activity; reducing prolonged periods of sitting; and including strength and balance exercises as part of everyday life.

The guidelines cover all stages of life, including children and young people, adults, older adults, disabled people, women during pregnancy and after birth.

The guidance also recognises that physical activity does not need to take place in long or structured sessions to have a positive impact. Walking to the shops, taking the stairs, dancing, gardening, active play and household tasks can all contribute towards improving health when carried out regularly.  

The UK CMOs, Professor Chris Whitty, Professor Michael McBride, Professor Gregor Smith and Professor Isabel Oliver, said: "We are delighted to be publishing the updated UK CMO physical activity guidelines, with new and stronger supporting evidence on the key role physical activity plays in improving and maintaining health in adults. The evidence has strengthened for women. Evidence continues to show that if physical activity were a drug, we would refer to it as a miracle cure, due to the great many illnesses it can prevent or treat. It is now clear that even small amounts of physical activity produce important benefits compared to none, and the benefits steadily increase up to the recommended 150 minutes a week.  

"The evidence of the need to maintain strength and balance as we age, which may require different sorts of physical activity, including for those on GLP1-agonist drugs for weight management or diabetes, has strengthened.  

"New evidence also highlights that the benefits of physical activity for health far outweigh the risks in many groups who might be concerned about this, including for people living with disability and most long-term conditions."

Public Health Minister, Sharon Hodgson, said: "Being physically active is one of the simplest ways people can improve both their physical and mental health, and these refreshed guidelines provide clear, evidence-based advice to help everyone make movement part of everyday life.  

"Whether it’s walking to school, playing in the park, taking the stairs or getting active at home, small changes can add up to significant health benefits. As we head into the summer holidays, we’re encouraging families to take advantage of the opportunities to get moving together and build healthy habits that can last a lifetime."