Highlights | ||
 | Cycling for health: WHO's work wins prize | |
| Velo-city Conference 2009 recognized WHO/Europe’s work to promote physical activity (including cycling for health). | ||
| Move for Health - May 2009 | |
 Every year, around 10 May, Member States are encouraged to promote physical activity with national activities - the day is known as Move for Health Day. The day generates public awareness of the benefits of physical activity in preventing noncommunicable diseases through an active lifestyle. | ||
Despite the benefits of physical activity, people are not sufficiently active. Each year, at least 1.9 million people worldwide (including over 600 000 in the WHO European Region) die as a result of physical inactivity. In addition, a lack of physical activity is an independent risk factor for chronic diseases.
Regular physical activity - such as walking, cycling, or dancing - has significant benefits for health. For instance, it can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and osteoporosis, help control weight, and promote mental well-being. Taking part in physical activity increases opportunities for socialization, networking and cultural identity.
Active living benefits health at all ages. It is especially important to the healthy development of children and young people, and active ageing can make a dramatic difference to the well-being of older people.
Most people's daily living environments - including transport, housing and occupational, school and leisure settings - have great potential for increasing physical activity. All sectors are called upon to engage and collaborate in effective policies and interventions. WHO supports policy and promotion of physical activity through several approaches.
