Evolution of public health recommendations for physical activity

Objective. -To describe the evolution of the recommendations for physical activity to better understand their scientific bases and to summarize the current public health recommendations for physical activity. News. -The health-related benefits from physical activity are well-known even if all the mechanisms are not well understood. Some recommendations have been published and guidelines have been provided. Perspectives and projects. -Public health recommendations for physical activity are largely shared. However, specific recommendations for management of chronic disease should be precised. Conclusion. -Recommendations for physical activity should be disseminate among professionals, and particularly among health professionals because of their capacity to deliver advices to their patients. The challenge consists in defining the optimal quantity and the type of physical activity according to the characteristics of the population and their health. (C) 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.