A recent study conducted by researchers from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network has revealed concerning trends regarding physical activity levels among young adults. The study, published in PLOS ONE, found that young adults are increasingly failing to meet the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) per week.
The research, led by David Abernethy and Associate Professor Toby Pavey from QUT’s School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, alongside Dr. Jason Bennie from Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network, analyzed the physical activity habits of over 2 million American adults from 2011 to 2019. Abernethy highlighted that the findings were particularly troubling for young adults, showing a consistent decline in physical activity levels.
“While this study focused on U.S. data, Australia faces similar challenges in terms of physical activity adherence, underscoring the urgent need for targeted public health interventions to boost activity levels,” said Abernethy. He added that the decline in activity among younger individuals was surprising, especially since age-related declines in physical activity are typically observed in older populations.
A possible factor contributing to this decline, the researchers suggested, is the increasing reliance on sedentary behaviors, particularly those related to digital media consumption. Abernethy pointed to a study on U.S. high school students, which found a notable shift in screen time—while TV time decreased, other screen-based activities such as social media use surged between 2007 and 2015.
The study also found that approximately half of U.S. adults reported meeting the recommended levels of moderate-to-vigorous activity. While any physical activity is beneficial, achieving 150 minutes of MVPA weekly is crucial for improving well-being and reducing the risk of chronic diseases and premature death. Moderate-intensity activities allow for conversation, while vigorous-intensity activities elevate the heart rate and make talking more difficult.
Professor Pavey noted that the study reinforced findings from previous research, showing that men are generally more likely to meet physical activity guidelines than women. This discrepancy, he explained, could be linked to gender norms that prioritize women’s caregiving roles and societal standards that discourage women from engaging in certain physical activities due to concerns about appearing “muscular.”
The research also highlighted several demographic groups that are more likely to meet the physical activity guidelines, including men, individuals with higher education levels, non-smokers, those with a normal BMI, and people who consume more fruits and vegetables.
The study identified key priority groups for increasing physical activity levels:
- Young adults: Targeting declines in physical activity after secondary school.
- Women: Addressing the gender gap in physical activity participation.
- Lower-educated populations: Expanding accessible and inclusive physical activity programs.
- People living with obesity: Providing low-impact, barrier-free activity options.
- People with chronic diseases and mental health conditions: Integrating physical activity into healthcare practices through GP referrals and community programs.
By focusing on these key groups, the study emphasizes the importance of understanding the factors contributing to physical inactivity and implementing strategies to encourage more widespread participation in regular physical activity.
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