Physical exercise that meets the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines is associated with world economy growth based on an economic analysis.
Key findings suggest that increased physical exercise could help the world economy in terms of global gross domestic product (GDP) gain between US$138 billion — US$338 by 2025, compared to current physical activity levels, according to the study “The economic benefits of a more physically active population: An international analysis”. With this, the economic benefits by 2050 the potential increase could reach between US$314 billion and US$760 billion.
The study held by the health insurance group Vitality and the think tank RAND Europe reveals that economic gains are achieved through reduced presenteeism, reduced mortality, and reduced sickness absence.
Findings also disclosed that improving physical activity can help global healthcare expenditure save billions of dollars. The WHO recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise for adults.
The RAND/Vitality study pointed out “a significant relationship between inactivity and productivity loss” and should give policymakers and employers “new perspectives on how to enhance the productivity of their populations,” said Hans Pung, RAND Europe’s president.
Tal Gilbert, chief executive officer of Vitality USA, said that the study “provides proof of the relationship between physical activity, productivity, mortality and economic growth. The stakes are enormous for the individual and for our society as a whole. This is why we are leading efforts with Vitality-linked insurers, such as John Hancock, to make 100 million people 20 percent more active by 2025, as part of our global pledge.”
The study, which was partly based on the data of 120,000 people across seven countries, recommends the following:
- Change population behaviours and attitudes to promote the increase of physical activity, supporting and encouraging individuals to shift their beliefs and motivations.
- Using both community and workplace settings, provide an environment that encourages physical activity and that supports the access to facilities.
- Encourage the participation in programmes and interventions.
- Encourage more physical activity across society by interlinking systems-wide programmes and interventions.
