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32 HEALTH AWEMainta
Over Half of Dutch Adults
Falling Short on Exercise
RECENT data from the Dutch statistics office CBS (Centraal
Bureau voor de Statistiek) paints a concerning picture of
physical activity in the Netherlands, with more than 50% of
Dutch adults failing to meet recommended exercise levels.
This includes not only moderate-intensity activities such
as cycling and walking but also muscle and bone-strength-
ening exercises like football and weightlifting.
The Health Council of the Netherlands’ exercise guidelines
suggest that adults should engage in at least two and a half
hours of moderately intensive activities per week, along with
muscle and bone-strengthening exercises at least twice a
week. While a substantial 78% of Dutch people still manage
to incorporate muscle and bone-strengthening exercises
into their routines, only half of adults achieve adequate levels
of light exercise. A mere 44% meet both criteria, according
to the CBS figures, which were compiled in collaboration
with the RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the
Environment).
What’s more alarming is the downward trend in the number
of people meeting these exercise guidelines. In 2017, when
the guidelines were introduced, 47% of adults complied.
However, by last year, that number had fallen to just 44%.
The government has set an ambitious target of having 75%
of the Dutch population meet these guidelines by 2040,
aiming to address both physical and mental health issues.
Diaranson, 13 September 2023
Age appears to play a significant role in these statistics, with
exercise levels decreasing as people get older. Fewer than
30% of individuals over 75 meet the exercise guidelines,
and this percentage further declines as age increases. In
contrast, 63% of those aged 18 to 35 engage in regular
exercise.
Education also plays a pivotal role in exercise habits.
Research has consistently shown that more educated indi-
viduals tend to work out more frequently.
The COVID-19 pandemic amplified this trend, with solo activ-
ities like running and cycling becoming increasingly popular
among highly educated individuals when team sports were
temporarily restricted.
While factors like free time and cost seem to have minimal
influence on exercise levels, gender disparities are evident.
In 2022, more men (52%) exercised weekly compared to
women (49%), with men primarily engaging in sufficient
moderate or vigorous intensity activities, while women
leaned more towards activities that strengthen bones and
muscles.
The findings underscore the importance of continued efforts
to promote physical activity among the Dutch population,
especially as they age, in order to address the country’s
evolving health landscape.