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Beyond movement alone: rethinking health implications of purposeful physical (in)activity, stillness, and rest

Research Output: Contribution to journal Article Peer-review

Open access

Sustainable Development Goals

  • SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
    SDG 3 Good Health and Well

Abstract

Physical inactivity has become associated with a range of poor health outcomes. Major policy documents have urged actions to decrease physical inactivity at a population level and health promotion campaigns have urged individuals to change their behaviour at a personal level. In this Viewpoint, we challenge the orthodox view, which frames physical activity as solely good and healthy, and inactivity as solely bad and unhealthy. Labelling inactivity as only unhealthy ignores underlying politics and contexts, neglecting the vital role that rest plays in sustaining both wellbeing and the capacity to care for others. To resist, we call for a holistic appreciation of stillness and rest as part of a Dynamic Continuum of Human Movement. A shift in thinking would consider the potential health benefits of stillness as being socially active, mentally active and restorative. We offer policy and practice implications, and encourage the public health community to incorporate an empathetic, inclusive and holistic appreciation of stillness into health promotion messaging.

Publication Information

Output type

Research Output: Contribution to journal Article Peer-review

Original language

English

Pages from-to (Number of pages)

Pages 147-150 (4 pages)

Journal (Volume, Issue Number)

Journal of Physical Activity and Health (Volume 23, Issue 2)

Publication milestones

  • Accepted/In press - 01/08/2025
  • Published - 22/10/2025

Publication status

Published - 22/10/2025

ISSN

1543-3080

External Publication IDs

  • handle.net: 10547/626746
  • Scopus: 105028244423
  • PubMed: 41027570

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