[The health benefits of physical activity]

Five million deaths per year worldwide could be prevented if physical activity (PA) recommendations were followed. Scientific studies have shown with a high level of evidence that PA prevents and treats most chronic diseases. It also contributes to the prevention of the main risk factors for these diseases. In France, whatever the age group, physical activity is considered insufficient in relation to the recommendations of the World Health Organisation. However, over the last ten years, public policies have been moving in the direction of promoting physical activity.