Why is this National Indicator important?
Increasing the proportion of the population meeting physical activity levels is a key legacy aspiration for the Commonwealth Games. There is also a strong health benefit as increases equate to addressing the impact on sedentary lifestyles which can lead to reductions in health issues such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and blood pressure.
There is also emerging evidence that physical activity delivers better outcomes for mild depression that prescribed medication.
What will influence this National Indicator?
The levels of inactivity within developed countries is increasing and we are therefore seeking to buck an International trend. However, the investment in facilities and the excitement of two large scale sporting events coming to Scotland in 2014 (Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup) will be used as a catalyst to excite and energise our efforts towards increasing physical activity.
What is the Government's role?
Our two National strategies will continue to inform thinking and delivery are Let's Make Scotland More Active (2003) and Reaching Higher and are designed to set the strategic context. This is complimented by the Games Legacy plan and guides investment decision we take (including support through NHS Health Boards, grant funding of sportscotland and any subsequent investment such as Cashback etc.)
How is Scotland performing?
There has been an increase in the proportion of adults meeting physical activity recommendations from 37% in 2009 to 39% in 2010. This continues the general increasing trend since 1998 although there have been some fluctuations year-on-year.
The data for this chart is available at the bottom of the page
Source: Scottish Health Survey
Criteria for recent change
This evaluation is based on: any difference within +/- 2 percentage points of last year's figure suggests that the position is more likely to be maintaining than showing any change. An increase of 2 percentage points or more suggests the position is improving; whereas a decrease of 2 percentage points or more suggests the position is worsening.
Further Information
For information on general methodological approach, please click here.
Scotland Performs Technical Note
Who are our partners?
Sportscotland
NHS Health Scotland
NHS Health Boards
Local Authorities
Governing Bodies of Sport
Related Strategic Objectives
Healthier