Physical Activity and Health
The Physical Activity and Health division is dedicated to the promotion of physical activity across a broad spectrum. This encompasses measures for individuals and specific target populations, opportunities for actions within various settings (e.g., apprenticeship, healthcare systems, communities), and physical activity promoting policies.
Research questions we address in our research include:
- How can physical activity and sports be promoted in society?
- How can communities, associations, companies, health insurance companies, health professionals, or political actors be empowered to sustainably promote physical activity?
- How can we strengthen the physical activity related health competence (PAHCO) of individuals?
- What are the conditions, facilitating factors, and barriers for health-promoting physical activity and sports?
In our work we focus on the development and testing of innovative interventions, further development of theories and frameworks, and the development of appropriate measurement instruments and methods. All this is done in close collaboration with stakeholders, including those from the health sector, education, sports, and politics.
One of few WHO Collaborating Centers worldwide exclusively focused on physical activity is located within the Physical Activity and Health division. Experts at the department advise and support the WHO on the topic of physical activity promotion, such as networking between relevant actors and sectors, and in planning, implementing, and evaluating specific measures for promoting physical activity. The center is not only a key contact for the Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) but also for the national contact points for physical activity promotion in the 27 EU member states. The center’s national and international leadership in the field of physical activity promotion is complemented by long-standing experience in projects aimed at promoting physical activity in various settings. Recently, there has been an increased focus on advising organizations and expert associations on the topics of physical activity promotion, planetary health, and sustainability.
Information on the division’s staff can be found here.
Our research projects
Our current research projects can be found here.
Our completed research projects can be found here.