Health promotion: Exercise in primary care

Abstract

Physical inactivity is the fourth-leading risk factor for death worldwide. It contributes to approximately 3 200 000 deaths each year. Globally, one in every four individuals is physically inactive. This article looks at the burden of physical inactivity, and benefits and recommendations for physical activity for different age groups. There is a discussion on how these recommendations can be achieved in a general practice setting using health promotion models, and by working in conjunction with community partners, both on a local and national level.