Updated guidance from the UK Chief Medical Officers reinforces the message that even small amounts of physical activity can have a big impact on health and wellbeing.

The UK Chief Medical Officers have published refreshed Physical Activity Guidelines, bringing together the latest evidence on how movement supports physical, mental and social wellbeing throughout life. The updated guidance confirms that existing activity recommendations remain the same, while strengthening the evidence that every movement counts and that moving from inactivity to any level of activity delivers the greatest health benefits.

The guidelines highlight that physical activity does not need to happen in long or structured sessions to make a difference. Everyday activities such as walking, wheeling, taking the stairs, gardening, active play, household tasks and dancing all contribute towards better health.

New evidence also places greater emphasis on the importance of strength and balance activities throughout life, particularly as we age, and for people taking GLP-1 medications for diabetes or weight management, where maintaining muscle strength is especially important.

The guidance covers all stages of life, including children and young people, adults, older adults, disabled people, and women during pregnancy and after birth. It reinforces the message that physical activity should be accessible, inclusive and achievable for everyone.

Regular movement is proven to reduce the risk of a range of long-term health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers, while also supporting positive mental health and wellbeing.

Building more active places cross Lincolnshire

At Active Lincolnshire, we know that being active is about much more than sport or exercise. It's about creating the conditions that make movement a natural part of everyday life for everyone, regardless of age, background, ability or where they live.

Emma Tatlow, CEO of Active Lincolnshire, said:

"These refreshed guidelines send a powerful and encouraging message – every movement matters. At Active Lincolnshire, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of an active life, but we know that isn't currently the reality for everyone.

The greatest gains come when we support those who face the biggest barriers to being active. That's why our focus remains firmly on tackling inequalities and working with communities to shape places where moving more feels welcoming, accessible and achievable.

Whether that's walking to the shops, being active with family and friends, enjoying local green spaces or taking part in community activities, we want every person in Lincolnshire to feel that being active is for them. By working together across neighbourhoods, organisations and systems, we can create healthier, happier and more connected places where everyone has the chance to move more and live well."

Andy Taylor, CEO of the Active Partnerships National Organisation, said:  

"These refreshed guidelines are a reflection of the growing evidence that all movement is beneficial, but they also remind us that the greatest opportunity lies in supporting those people who are currently the least active.  

By listening to communities, understanding the specific barriers that people face in different places, and collaborating with them to find solutions that work for them, we can help more people benefit from being active. 

Across England, the Active Partnerships Network connects and collaborates with partners in different sectors such as health, local government, education, transport, the voluntary sector, as well as community sports organisations and local communities, turning national guidance into local action.  

Together, we can use this evidence and the guidelines to reduce health inequalities, build healthier communities, and ensure more people have the opportunity to lead active lives." 

The key messages

The refreshed guidance highlights that:

• Any activity is better than none.
• The biggest health benefits come when people move from being inactive to doing some activity.
• Regular strength and balance activities are important throughout life.
• Reducing long periods of sitting can improve health and wellbeing.
• Physical activity can be built into everyday routines in ways that work for different people and communities.

As we head into the summer months, the guidance provides a timely reminder that staying active doesn't need to be complicated. Small, sustainable changes made consistently can have a meaningful impact on health, wellbeing and quality of life.

To learn more about the UK Chief Medical Officers' Physical Activity Guidelines and discover ways to get active in Lincolnshire, visit www.letsmovelincolnshire.com