On 30th November 2021, EU Sport Ministers adopted conclusions on Lifelong Physical Activity, aiming to encourage regular physical activity for everyone throughout their lives. This activity could be supported by lifelong monitoring of physical fitness, and the development of adequate environments.
Promoting lifelong physical activity has been one of the key priorities of the Slovenian Presidency. Sport Ministers considered physical activity of paramount importance for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle to improve the physical and mental health of Europeans and help reduce pressure on our health systems.
The EU Council Ministers further argued that equal opportunities should be provided to disadvantaged groups who ‘are often insufficiently physically active due to fewer opportunities and limited access’. As a response, the Council conclusions suggest developing tailored programmes, and accessible and sustainable public areas (such as side-walks with bicycles or jogging lanes, sport facilities in schools and universities, etc.).