Updated physical activity guidelines issued by UK chief medical officers

Newly updated guidelines on physical activity have been published by the UK’s chief medical officers. The guidelines reflect the latest scientific evidence available and for the first time include exercise recommendations during pregnancy.

The guidelines are split into different groups of recommendations:

Under 5s

5-18 year olds

19-64 year olds

65 and over

Pregnant women

Postpartum women

Disabled adults

Chief Medical Officer Professor Dame Sally Davies said, “Most children and adults in the UK are not active enough. Physical activity is an under-appreciated asset in our clinical arsenal. It is cheap and brings a long list of health benefits. As we age, our muscles weaken and we can become stiff, leading to falls and difficulty performing everyday activities. Physical activity can prevent fragility and support mobility in old age.”

NOTE: The physical activity guidelines are published in full in a PDF on GOV.UK