Fit India Movement
What is the Fit India Movement?
The Fit India Movement is an initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to promote a healthier and more active lifestyle among Indians. Officially initiated on March 25, 2018, PM Modi emphasized the importance of fitness and wellness, particularly through yoga, and called on health and fitness experts to champion this cause.
Why Take the Fit India Pledge?
The Fit India Pledge is a critical step towards increasing physical activity and combating the rising rates of lifestyle diseases in India. Physical inactivity has been linked to a higher risk of abdominal obesity, diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases. A landmark study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) revealed that a staggering 54% of Indians are physically inactive, with 90% not engaging in any recreational physical activity. This inactivity crisis underscores the urgent need to promote physical exercise to curb the growing prevalence of obesity and diabetes.
Key Findings from the ICMR-INDIAB Study
The ICMR-INDIAB study, which is the largest of its kind in India, examined physical activity patterns in four representative regions: Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Chandigarh, and Tamil Nadu. Here are some key insights:
- High Inactivity Rates: Nearly half of the population in the studied regions is inactive.
- Urban vs. Rural: Urban residents are more inactive compared to their rural counterparts.
- Gender Disparities: Males are generally more active than females, with rural women being the most inactive.
- Workplace Activity: Most physical activity occurs at the workplace, with minimal recreational activity.
- Economic Influence: Higher economic status is linked to lower physical activity levels.
- Education Correlation: Increased educational attainment correlates with higher physical activity levels.
Comparative Global Data
Physical inactivity is a global issue. In the United States, 52.8% of the population is inactive, with a higher prevalence among women (55.4%) compared to men (50.2%). In Sweden, 31% of the population is inactive, with inactivity rates of 63% among men and 76% among women.
Age and Inactivity
The study also found that physical inactivity increases with age:
- 20-29 years: 86.7% inactive
- 30-39 years: 93.2% inactive
- 40-49 years: 93% inactive
- 50-59 years: 94.7% inactive
- 60+ years: 95.9% inactive
Action Steps for a Fitter India
- Get Moving: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week, or 30 minutes a day, five days a week, as recommended by the WHO.
- Exercise Regularly: Incorporate regular physical exercise into your routine to reduce the risk of lifestyle diseases and lower healthcare costs.
- Eat Healthy: Choose nutritious foods and avoid junk food.
- Manage Stress: Implement stress management techniques to improve overall wellness.
- Seek Professional Guidance: Consult with qualified nutritionists and dietitians to develop a personalized health plan and get tested for diabetes and obesity to take timely action.
By embracing these steps, you can contribute to the vision of a fitter, healthier India. Let’s take the Fit India Pledge and work towards a healthier future together!
Pallavi Pinge is a Clinical Nutritionist and Dietitian | Content Director & Editor for health websites | has a passion for digital health and enjoys promoting health and wellness. She’s the founder and director of Ambrosia Wellness, where she provides personalized nutrition counseling, education, and coaching to individuals with various health conditions. You can follow her on her social media channels below to stay tuned in with the latest in health and wellness | Health Blog | Contact her for appointments |
