Glasgow Life's new strategy to increase physical activity

Glasgow Times

13-06-2025

Active Glasgow: A Physical Activity and Sport Strategy for Glasgow 2025-2035, developed by Glasgow Life and sector partners, aspires to enhance the lives of Glaswegians through activity and sport.
The plan, approved by the City Administration Committee, seeks to integrate sport and physical activity into the daily routines of Glaswegians.
(Image: Glasgow Life)
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It targets health inequalities and promotes diversity, equality, and inclusion, with success measured by a positive increase in activity levels.
Changes in environments, practices, and policies will be monitored in addition to evidence-based shifts in activity levels within targeted communities.
Various partners, including sports clubs, health services, educational services, and public health organisations, will collaborate on the strategy's implementation.
The strategy has been deemed essential in light of figures revealed around the state of physical wellbeing in Glasgow.
Figures have shown that 34% of adults and 31% of children in Glasgow do not meet the NHS's weekly physical activity guidelines.
Bailie Annette Christie, chair of Glasgow Life and Glasgow City Council convenor for culture, sport, and international relations, said: "Physical activity and sport have the power to boost mental and physical wellbeing, unite communities, and transform lives.
"This strategy focuses on addressing the issues that prevent people from getting involved in physical activity by offering solutions to help more Glaswegians and visitors to our city get active and experience the benefits of an active lifestyle."
The strategy aims to make Glasgow a leader in creating an encouraging environment for physical activity.
It proposes a single referral point for people who need support to be active and plans to develop the Live Active Exercise Referral Scheme and the Live Well Community Referral Programme.
Dr Emilia Crighton, director of public health at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: "The health benefits of physical activity and active living are well-known.
"Physical exercise is often branded a 'miracle cure', due to the critical role it plays in improving physical and mental wellbeing and helping to address a range of illnesses and health conditions.
"Creating an environment where physical activity becomes the easy option for people is central to health and wellbeing, and it is at the heart of this strategy.
'The focus on accessibility, availability, existing community assets, and greenspace, together with building confidence and skills for people of all ages, are critical to enabling this city to become an Active Glasgow – and therefore a healthier Glasgow.'
The plan also includes widening access to green spaces, recreational, and sports spaces, and ensuring they are safe and welcoming for all.
(Image: Glasgow Life)
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Paul Johnston, chief executive of Public Health Scotland, said: "Implementation of this strategy will transform environments, infrastructure, and services across Glasgow, making it easier for individuals to incorporate movement into their daily lives.
"Being physically active is hugely beneficial to improving our physical and mental health and contributes towards the prevention of illness and diseases.
"We hope this will be the first of many local strategies which will drive the necessary changes to create a healthier, more active Scotland."
The Active Glasgow strategy can be read in full on the Glasgow Life website.