Table 5 Physical activity message recommendations based on summary of findings

Children and young people

• Messages to this population should be framed positively, highlighting the benefits of physical activity. Specifically, messages should highlight the social and acute affective benefits of physical activity, for example, “physical activity is fun”.

• Messages to this population should be delivered via engaging modes such as videos and should be delivered through informal sources such as smartphone apps or the media.

Adults

• Messages to this population should be framed positively, with specific focus on social and mental health benefits of physical activity, for example, “physical activity makes you feel good”.

• Messages should be brief and should avoid threat-based language. To the general adult population, informal modes of delivery are encouraged such as through the media.

• In clinical populations, messages should be delivered through health care professionals.

Older adults

• Messages to this population should be framed positively, with specific focus on social and mental health benefits of physical activity, for example, “physical activity is an opportunity to connect with others”.

• Messages delivered through health care professionals are likely to be well-received

Pregnant women

• Messages to this population should include clear and practical information on physical activity during pregnancy, for example, messages could include examples of safe exercises.

• Messages should be delivered through credible sources such as health care professionals.

Disabled people

• Messages to this population should highlight short-term affective benefits of physical activity and should use inclusive images.

• Messages should be delivered through credible organisations, health care professionals and social workers.