Physical Activity: Case Studies | World Obesity Federation

Physical Activity: Case Studies

The case studies below exemplify some of the interventions and policies implemented around the globe.

Acknowledging the importance of external factors including the social, cultural and economic environment, read the case studies below to learn more about existing interventions designed to foster environments that promote active living, and identify some of the barriers and enablers to implement physical activity-oriented interventions.

Association of sports and physical activity with obesity among teenagers in Poland

This study aimed “to assess the relationship between the body mass index and sports and physi­cal activities in an unbiased, simple, random sample of teenagers from mid-north-eastern Poland.” 

Obesity, eating behaviour and physical activity during COVID-19 lockdown: A study of UK adults.

This study of UK adults between April-May 2020 examined physical activity levels, diet quality amongst other factors during the COVID-19 lockdown. The common barriers to weight management because of the pandemic were explored. 

Impact of physical activity on the association of overweight and obesity with cardiovascular disease: The Rotterdam Study

The Rotterdam Study examined the “association between overweight and obesity and cardiovascular disease risk as a function of physical activity levels in a middle-aged and elderly population.”

Improving the Metabolic and Mental Health of Children with Obesity: A School-Based Nutrition Education and Physical Activity Intervention in Wuhan, China

This research evaluated “the effectiveness of a school-based nutrition education and physical activity intervention on cardiovascular risk profile and mental health outcomes among Chinese children with obesity.” 

Intervention fidelity in a school-based diet and physical activity intervention in the UK: Active for Life Year 5

This study investigates the effectiveness and degree to which the Active for Life Year 5 (AFLY5) programme was delivered as intended in UK schools. The educational programme is targeted at 9–to-10-year-old children to increase their physical activity level, decrease sedentary behaviour, and promote the consumption of healthy food products.

Built Environment, Physical Activity, and Obesity: Findings from the International Physical Activity and Environment Network (IPEN) Adult Study

The International Physical Activity and Environment Network Adult study “shares data on the link between the built environment and physical activity and BMI across 12 countries on 5 continents (n > 14,000).” The study aimed to measure the associations of built environments with physical activity and overweight and obesity.

Influences of Physical and Social Neighbourhood Environments on Children's Physical Activity and Obesity

The study examined the role that the environments we live in have on physical activity levels and vice versa amongst 650 children. The study concluded the policy action to address childhood and adolescent obesity should consider both social and physical environments. 

Effect of a Workplace Weight-Loss Program for Overweight and Obese Healthcare Workers

The aim of the study was to assess the impact of a workplace weight-loss programme on weight loss, physical, behavioural, and mental well-being among people living with overweight or obesity.

Bidirectional association between stress and physical activity in adults with overweight and obesity.

The current study investigated the bidirectional association between stress and physical activity in adults with overweight and obesity. 

Physical Activity Dossier

This page will be constantly updated with new studies as they come about. In the meantime, you can view our other elements of the physical activity dossier.

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