Only connect: How social science can improve physical activity guidance

Citation

Kay T (2017) Only connect: How social science can improve physical activity guidance. In: Piggin J, Mansfield L & Weed M (eds.) Routledge Handbook of Physical Activity Policy and Practice. 1st ed. Routledge International Handbooks. London: Routledge, pp. 106-119. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315672779

Abstract
This chapter examines how policies to promote physical activity intersect with the transnational challenge of reducing health inequalities. The global trends that produce inequalities, such as population and rapid urbanisation, also pose obstacles to individuals pursuing active lifestyles. These structural challenges have however gone largely unrecognised in PA policies, which focus on individual behaviour change to increase physical activity. This chapter examines these omissions through the example of the UK, showing that they arise not from the dearth of evidence, but from the failure of PA expert communities to use it. The chapter concludes with suggestions for underpinning PA policy with a more diverse knowledge base that connects to the international debate around health inequalities and produces more informed guidance.

Keywords
physical activity policy; physical activity; physical activity promotion; future physical activity policy;

Journal
Routledge Handbook of Physical Activity Policy and Practice

People

Professor Tess Kay

Deputy Dean and Head of Sport, Sport