The Prevalence of Physical Inactivity in the UK, and how Exercise Psychology can be Beneficial.

Physical inactivity in the UK is a serious public health concern. It contributes to many long-term illnesses and adds further strain to an already overburdened healthcare system. Inactivity is responsible for 1 in 6 deaths in the UK and costs the country over £7.4 billion each year (GOV, 2022).

Around 39% of adults in the UK are classed as physically inactive, with women being 36% more likely than men to fall short of the government's physical activity guidelines. There are also differences across the UK nations, with Wales (42%) and Northern Ireland (46%) having higher inactivity rates than Scotland (37%) and England (39%) (British Heart Foundation, 2017).

Inactivity levels also vary by ethnicity, with ethnic minority groups more likely to be inactive than the White British population (GOV, 2019). This is linked to a range of social and economic factors, such as income, employment, environment, and religious beliefs (van Teijlingen, 2025). Additionally, as people get older, inactivity increases, rising by 14% between the ages of 16–24 and 65–74 (GOV, 2019).

There are many reasons why people struggle to stay active. Those from lower-income backgrounds often face financial barriers, such as the cost of gym memberships, transport, or equipment. Many people also have limited free time due to work and family commitments. In some areas, a lack of parks, walking paths, and safe outdoor spaces makes it harder for people to exercise (Public Health England, 2021).

Cultural factors also play a role. Some ethnic minority groups, particularly women, may face challenges due to traditional gender roles, religious dress codes, or cultural expectations that discourage participation in sport and exercise (Sport England, 2019). A lack of suitable exercise options, such as women-only fitness classes, can make it even harder for some groups to get involved.

Psychological barriers are also important. Many people lack confidence, fear being judged, or have had negative experiences with exercise in the past. Sport is often seen as competitive, which can put off those who don’t see themselves as naturally ‘sporty’ (Biddle & Mutrie, 2021).

To reduce inactivity, we need to look beyond financial and social barriers and consider the mental side of exercise. Sport and exercise psychology focuses on how thoughts, feelings, and motivation affect physical activity, and it could help encourage more people to get moving.

One useful theory is the Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985), which suggests that people are more likely to stick with physical activity if they find it enjoyable and personally rewarding, rather than feeling pressured into it. Encouraging people to see exercise as fun and fulfilling could make a big difference in long-term participation.

Another key idea is the Transtheoretical Model (Prochaska & DiClemente, 1983), which explains how people move through different stages when changing their behaviour. Strategies such as setting small goals, having social support, and building self-confidence can help people go from being inactive to developing a regular exercise routine.

For example, helping people believe in their ability to succeed, known as self-efficacy, can improve participation rates. Giving people simple and achievable fitness goals, celebrating small wins, and creating a supportive environment can boost their confidence and motivation.

There are many ways we can use psychology to help people become more active. Community-based programmes that focus on social connections such as walking groups, beginner-friendly exercise classes, or buddy systems can help make physical activity feel more welcoming and less intimidating.

It’s also important to consider cultural differences. Providing exercise programmes that reflect the needs of different ethnic groups such as women-only sessions, religiously appropriate spaces, or multilingual resources could help more people get involved.

Technology is another useful tool. Fitness apps, online coaching, and virtual exercise groups can help people track progress, set goals, and find support from others. Digital platforms could be particularly helpful for younger generations and those who prefer working out from home.

Using sport and exercise psychology in public health strategies could be key to reducing inactivity levels across the UK. By tackling mental barriers, making exercise feel more positive, and creating supportive environments, we can encourage more people to get active.

A well-rounded approach considering social, financial, and psychological factors will help make physical activity more accessible and appealing for all. If we can shift the way people think about exercise, making it feel like an enjoyable part of everyday life rather than a duty, we can create lasting change and improve public health across the UK.