Box 1.

Summary of available evidence on physical activity

• Observational studies of people with different levels of physical inactivity indicate that increasing physical activity is beneficial55,56

• Inactive people should start increasing physical activity slowly and gradually57

• Brisk walking is the preferred initial exercise modality46,57

• 30–60 min of daily physical activity is recommended, including aerobic exercise, work-related activity, and muscle strengthening58

• Physical activity can be accumulated throughout the day in blocks as short as 10 minutes

• A dose–response relationship exists between physical activity and health; the beneficial effects are greater when exceeding minimum recommendations

• Physical activity must be individualized based on fitness and comorbidities