UAE’s Physical Activity Scorecard: Positive Trends and Areas for Growth
Recent evaluations of physical activity among children and youth in the UAE have provided valuable insights into how well we’re supporting and engaging our younger population in staying active. Here’s a look at the highlights and areas for improvement:
Key Insights:
Overall Physical Activity Levels: While many UAE children are not yet meeting the daily recommended levels of physical activity, there’s a clear opportunity for growth. Grades indicate room for improvement, signaling a chance to enhance overall activity levels (1, 2).
Sedentary Behavior: Current grades suggest moderate levels of inactivity. This presents an exciting opportunity for initiatives aimed at reducing sedentary behavior and encouraging more dynamic lifestyles (1).
Family and Peer Influence: The support from family and peers has been noted as moderate. Strengthening these networks could be a game-changer in boosting physical activity levels (1).
School Environment: Schools are a crucial environment for fostering physical activity. Although current support levels are noted as needing improvement, this opens up possibilities for developing and implementing more robust programs and policies (1).
Government Strategies and Investments: The UAE government’s strategies and investments in promoting physical activity have been rated highly. This strong foundation demonstrates a commitment to enhancing physical activity and paves the way for continued progress (1).
Active Transportation: The engagement in active transportation like walking or cycling to school is currently low. There’s a great opportunity to encourage more active commuting and make it a norm in our daily routines (1).
Incomplete Data: Some areas, such as sport participation and community environments, are marked as incomplete due to insufficient data. This highlights the need for more comprehensive data collection to better understand and address all aspects of physical activity (1).
Insights Summary:
The UAE’s physical activity scorecards reveal both challenges and promising avenues for growth. While there’s significant room for improvement in various areas, especially within schools and active transportation, the strong governmental support and the potential for enhanced family and community involvement provide a solid foundation for progress. With continued effort and strategic initiatives, the UAE is well-positioned to boost physical activity levels and foster healthier lifestyles among its youth.
1. Results From the United Arab Emirates' 2016 Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth.Journal of physical activity & health Mouza Ismail Al Zaabi et al
2. Results From the United Arab Emirates' 2018 Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth.Journal of physical activity & health M. Paulo et al
