Physical Activity Gap: Mothers Struggle to Meet Health Guidelines, Study Finds

Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness

A recent study by researchers at the Universities of Southampton and Cambridge found that less than half of mothers are getting the recommended amount of exercise, with those who have young children doing even less. This research, which looked at data from the Southampton Women’s Survey, examined how having kids of different ages affects how much exercise mothers can do. Health experts say adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise each week, but it turns out a lot of moms aren't hitting this target.

The study focused on 848 women, aged 20-34, who joined the SWS between 1998 and 2002, with subsequent follow-ups over the years. Their activity levels were monitored using accelerometers, akin to smartwatches, providing a detailed view of their physical activity. The findings show that women with school-aged children average about 26 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day. This number decreases to 21 minutes for mothers with more than one child and drops even further to 18 minutes daily for those with children four years old or younger. Interestingly, the study also found that mothers with several young children engaged more in light-intensity exercise compared to those with older children.

The consequences of these findings are profound, considering the myriad health benefits of regular physical activity, such as reduced risks of chronic diseases, better weight management, and enhanced mental health. Moreover, engaging in physical activities offers parents a valuable avenue to strengthen their bonds with their children. Despite these benefits, the study spotlights a significant disparity in physical activity levels among mothers, especially those with younger or multiple children, highlighting a pressing need for more supportive initiatives from both local governments and leisure facility providers.

Elevate Your Expertise: Tune in to Our YouTube Channel for Exclusive Podcasts with fitness and wellness Industry Titans and Game-Changers