The global health community is increasingly recognizing the powerful connection between physical activity, sport, and overall well-being. Both the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have underscored the potential of sport and movement as low-cost, high-impact tools for improving public health worldwide.
Recent discussions at the United Nations in New York highlighted this growing consensus. Representatives from both the IOC and WHO emphasized that engaging in sport and physical activity isn’t just about preventing disease; it’s about fostering healthier, more resilient societies. “Sport is one of the low-cost, high-impact solutions for preventing diseases and supporting mental health,” stated IOC President Kirsty Coventry.
The need for this focus is stark. According to the WHO, approximately one billion people globally suffer from mental health conditions, and noncommunicable diseases account for seven of the ten leading causes of death worldwide. These statistics underscore the urgent need for preventative measures, and both organizations are positioning physical activity as a cornerstone of that effort.
The economic benefits of prioritizing sport and movement are also significant. Studies presented during the UN meetings indicated that for every dollar invested in sport and physical activity initiatives, there’s a potential return of four dollars through reduced healthcare costs and broader economic gains. This cost-effectiveness is a key argument for integrating physical activity into public health strategies.
This momentum has led to a political declaration at the UN General Assembly, where several member states committed to developing policies that promote physical activity and combat sedentary lifestyles. This commitment signals a growing international recognition of the importance of movement for population health.
The benefits of regular physical activity are well-documented. The U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI) reports that consistent exercise not only improves physical health but also reduces the risk of premature death from conditions like cardiovascular disease and cancer. For older adults, the WHO recommends maintaining an active lifestyle to preserve functionality, mental health, and overall quality of life.
The IOC and WHO are actively collaborating on initiatives to translate this understanding into action. Campaigns like Olympic Day and the “Let’s Move” initiative aim to motivate individuals and communities to prioritize physical activity. Olympic Day, with participation from over 150 national Olympic committees and sports federations, focuses on inclusivity and community engagement.
IOC President Thomas Bach has emphasized the broader benefits of sport, stating, “Sport is joy, healthy body and mind, and resilience in communities.” This highlights the understanding that sport isn’t solely about physical exertion; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging, social support, and shared goals – all of which contribute to improved well-being.
Data from the IOC and WHO demonstrate that shared goals, social support, and group activities enhance motivation, mental well-being, and reduce feelings of loneliness. These social aspects of sport are increasingly recognized as crucial components of its health benefits.
Despite the compelling evidence, physical inactivity remains a significant global challenge. The WHO estimates that one in three adults do not meet the minimum recommended levels of physical activity. Addressing this requires a multifaceted approach, including expanding access to public spaces, implementing inclusive policies, and encouraging movement across all age groups.
To address this, the IOC and WHO are developing joint campaigns aimed at broadening access to public spaces, fostering inclusive policies, and encouraging movement across all age groups. A new global initiative, part of a technical cooperation project between the IOC and WHO, aims to strengthen the role of sport in contributing to the global target of a 15 percent reduction in physical inactivity by 2030.
the IOC, WHO, and PATH are collaborating to strengthen the role of community sport in promoting healthy lives, with projects planned in several countries, beginning in Vietnam. This initiative will support the delivery of community sport projects through national collectives of health and sport stakeholders, aiming to reach over one million people by 2025.
The International Council of Sport Science and Physical Education (ICSSPE) has also been selected by the IOC and WHO to deliver the OLYMPISM365 Sport and Health Capacity Development Initiative. This program will provide customized training to health and sport professionals, enhancing their understanding of health-promoting sport and physical activity and improving the design and implementation of relevant policies and programs.
every instance of physical activity – a game, a step, a shared routine – represents an investment in public health. This approach, supported by international organizations, aims not only to save lives and strengthen communities but also to alleviate the economic burden on healthcare systems caused by preventable diseases.
