26.02.2025.
Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to improve both physical and mental health. Yet, many Europeans are not active enough, leading to a higher risk of diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and depression.
This inactivity also places a massive strain on healthcare systems, workplaces, and overall quality of life.
These findings and recommendations are based on the OECD and WHO report “Step Up! Tackling the Burden of Insufficient Physical Activity in Europe.”
The benefits of moving more
If everyone in the EU exercised at least 150 minutes per week, it would prevent over 10,000 premature deaths annually and increase life expectancy for inactive people by 7.5 months and for the total population by nearly 2 months.
It would prevent 11.5 million new cases of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by 2050, including:
- 3.8 million cases of cardiovascular disease
- 3.5 million cases of depression
- 1 million cases of type 2 diabetes
- 400,000 cases of cancer
Additionally, this would save nearly EUR 8 billion per year in healthcare costs, representing 0.6% of the EU’s total healthcare budget.
Even greater benefits come with more movement:
Those who exercise 300 minutes per week could see 2-3 times bigger impacts:
- Nearly 30,000 fewer premature deaths per year.
- Prevention of 27 million new cases of chronic diseases over 30 years.
- Healthcare savings of EUR 17 billion per year.
The cost of inactivity
Today, life expectancy in the EU is 81 years, but many older adults live with chronic illnesses and disabilities.
NCDs like cardiovascular disease and cancer cause 60% of all deaths in the EU, with nearly 40% of people over 65 having at least two chronic conditions.
Poor mental health is also a growing concern—before the COVID-19 pandemic, 11% of EU adults experienced psychological distress, and the situation has worsened since.
Physical activity can help.
Even a single session of moderate exercise can lower blood pressure, improve sleep, and reduce anxiety. Over time, regular activity reduces disease risk, improves mental health, and enhances overall well-being.
The financial burden of inactivity
Countries with large populations and high healthcare costs—Germany, Italy, and France—bear the greatest financial burden from diseases linked to inactivity. In general, countries that spend more on healthcare also spend more on treating illnesses caused by physical inactivity.
Malta, Portugal, and Italy have average healthcare costs per person, but because many people in these countries are not active enough, their healthcare spending on related illnesses is higher than average.
If everyone met the recommended 150 minutes of exercise per week, the 27 EU countries studied could save an average of EUR 14.4 per person annually in healthcare costs from 2022 to 2050.
Increasing activity to 300 minutes per week could generate additional savings of EUR 17.7 per person, bringing the total to EUR 32.2 per year per person.
A more active workforce
A healthier population means a larger, more productive workforce. Reducing inactivity could help lessen the health and economic impact of current and future pandemics.
With many adults spending most of their day at work, workplace initiatives play a key role in promoting physical activity.
In 2021, 20 out of 27 EU countries had national programs to encourage physical activity in workplaces, and 17 countries had policies promoting active commuting (e.g., cycling or walking to work).
Simple interventions can make a big difference, such as:
- Walking breaks and stair-use prompts
- Standing desks and ergonomic workspaces
- Incentives for active commuting (e.g., subsidies for cycling)
Encouraging active lifestyles from a young age
Schools play a key role in promoting physical activity through education and opportunities during and after school.
Physical education (PE) enhances student activity levels, social skills, and academic outcomes while fostering lifelong healthy habits.
All EU Member States legally mandate PE, but its definition, integration, and assessment vary. Notably, only 74% monitor PE quality.
Several European countries have already launched initiatives to promote physical activity among children:
- Austria: The “Move Children Healthy” program provides free exercise sessions in primary schools.
- Lithuania: A national funding system supports after-school sports and activities.
- Estonia: The “Schools in Motion” program encourages active learning, play, and transport.
- Belgium: Schools receive financial aid to open sports facilities after school hours.
A simple solution with a big impact
By making physical activity a priority—through personal habits, workplace policies, and national programs—Europe can reduce disease, extend lives, and save billions in healthcare costs.
A small change in daily routines can lead to a healthier, longer, and more productive life for millions.
