Question 1

What target does the global action plan on physical activity set?

Accepted Answer

A 15% relative reduction in the prevalence of physical inactivity among adults and adolescents by 2030, from a 2010 baseline, through 4 strategic objectives and 20 policy actions. Progress has reversed: adult insufficient activity was 26.4% in 2010 and 31.3% in 2022, so the framework is best seen as a structure for action rather than a demonstrated success.

Question 2

What does a whole-of-society approach mean in practice?

Accepted Answer

Addressing inactivity through coordinated action across sectors rather than individual behaviour change alone: health, transport, education, planning, sport and employers working together, supported by leadership, policy and data. In an exam stem, the phrase, along with systems-based approach, signals that the expected answer is population-level.

Question 3

Why are public education campaigns not enough on their own?

Accepted Answer

Campaigns can shift knowledge and attitudes but rarely change behaviour by themselves, because the barriers to activity are often structural rather than informational. Someone who knows they should be active still cannot cycle safely on a hostile road or use a park that feels unsafe, so campaigns work best within a combined set of investments.

Question 4

How would you assess whether an exercise referral scheme is well run?

Accepted Answer

Work through the 7 pillars of governance: whether it follows current evidence, whether adverse events are reported and learned from, whether users shaped it, whether outcomes are audited and acted on, whether staff are qualified and supervised, whether training is maintained, and whether data are accurate and secure. Then check the pathway runs assessment, brief intervention, signposting and follow-up.

Physical Activity Policy and Governance

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