There’s a new article in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health titled “We Do Have Enemies and We Should Know Who They Are: The Commercial Determinants of Physical Activity”.
It says:
- Exercise isn’t just about personal choice. The environments we live in are shaped by powerful businesses. Some of these businesses make it harder for people to be active. For example: car companies, property developers, and fuel industries often push for designs that keep people in cars and reduce walkable or cycle-friendly spaces.
- These groups are “enemies” of physical activity. They may not directly fight against sport or exercise but their actions make it much harder for communities to be active.
- Most health campaigns ignore this problem.
To get more Londoners active, we must not only motivate people, we must also challenge the industries and policies that make it harder for them to move.
Big Picture Thinking: This article reminds us that getting London moving is about more than encouraging individuals. It’s about changing the system.
Clear Opponents: It gives us a sharper view of who may resist progress and why.
Partnerships: London Sport can play a role in uniting voices from health, transport, and planning to stand together.
Policy Voice: By framing physical activity as a political issue, London Sport can push more strongly for active-friendly policies in London. Pushing for more active cities means going up against vested interests.