The Australian Government has updated the national guidelines for physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep for adults.
An estimated 46 per cent of Australian adults and older adults don’t do enough physical activity and many don’t get good quality sleep.
The 24-hour movement guidelines provide specific advice around what makes a healthy 24 hours, taking an integrated approach that considers physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep.
Advice ranges from recommended time to spend engaged in moderate to vigorous activities, muscle-strengthening, mobility and balance activities, limiting sedentary behaviour and getting enough sleep.
The advice takes into account different populations including people with a disability and chronic conditions.
The Government commissioned a University of Wollongong-led research team to undertake extensive systematic reviews, expert consultations and community engagement to ensure the guidelines reflect contemporary lifestyles and address health inequities.
The process involved reviewing existing international guidelines, systemic review and updates of evidence, as well as expert consultation by a Guideline Development Group and stakeholders.
Further resources will soon be released to understand and apply the more technical guidelines.
Read the new guidelines here 24-hour movement guidelines for adults & older adults (18 and over) – brochure | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister White:
“Many of us aren’t moving enough or sleeping well and simply don’t know it – or don’t know how to do better.
“We know many Australians are juggling work, family and everything in between and it’s not always easy to prioritise movement or rest.
“The new national guidelines recognise that reality and focus on what a healthy 24 hours can look like, not just one part of the day.
“I encourage everyone to read through the new guidelines and find out how to improve their health and wellbeing.”
Quotes attributable to Dr Monique Francois, University of Wollongong:
“Our daily movement, time spent inactive or still and sleep all work together. How we move during the day affects how well we sleep, and sleep then influences our energy and ability to be active.”
“These new guidelines show how what we do across the whole day can make a difference to our health.”