A study conducted by Stanford University examined data from over 700,000 people across 46 countries to identify global patterns in physical activity. The research utilized smartphones to track the daily steps taken by individuals, revealing significant differences in activity levels around the world.
According to the study, Indonesia had the lowest average daily step count, with people taking just 3,513 steps per day. Saudi Arabia and Malaysia followed closely, with averages of 3,807 and 3,963 steps per day, respectively. Pakistan was not listed among the least active nations.
India, however, was highlighted as one of the most inactive countries, with an average of only 4,297 steps per day. The study suggests that the low level of physical activity in India is largely due to rapid urbanization and changes in lifestyle. In major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, the hustle and bustle of urban life has led to a significant decrease in physical activity, as people increasingly rely on motorized transport and spend more time indoors.
The research findings underscore the importance of developing public health initiatives to promote physical activity across the globe. As urbanization continues to rise, it is crucial to encourage healthier lifestyles to combat the growing trend of inactivity. By fostering more active habits, such as walking or cycling, countries can improve overall health and well-being for their populations.