Four million Brits ‘put off exercise by school PE lessons’

Health & Fitness
21 Apr 2026 • 5:29 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • A new Age UK survey reveals that millions of Britons are physically inactive, with about four million adults aged 50 to 65 attributing this to negative experiences during school PE lessons.
  • About 40 per cent of mid-lifers still harbour bad memories from school PE, often recalling feelings of self-consciousness about their bodies or being the last chosen for teams.
  • The survey also found that 42 per cent of those aged 50 to 65 feel anxious about joining a sports group or class at their current age.
  • The NHS stresses the importance of daily physical activity, recommending at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly, alongside strength training, to mitigate health risks associated with inactivity.
  • Age UK and supporters like Dame Kelly Holmes are urging mid-lifers to embrace physical activity, highlighting its benefits for both physical and mental health and overall well-being in later life.

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