According to a recent global study, only about one in eight participants demonstrates adequate levels of sleep and physical activity.
This study, published in the journal Communications Medicine, emphasizes that proper rest may be more important for overall health than physical activity. Most people do not meet the recommended standards—between seven to nine hours of sleep and at least 8000 steps per day, as reported by Euronews.
Researchers analyzed data from more than 70,000 participants worldwide over 3.5 years, utilizing information from sleep and activity trackers. The results were quite alarming:
- 13% of respondents successfully meet both metrics—hours of sleep and steps.
- 17% of people sleep less than seven hours and take fewer than 5000 steps a day, falling into the "sedentary" category.
- Sleep deprivation is directly linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases, weight gain, and mental health issues. However, the study has its limitations, as it is based on data from personal trackers, which are most commonly used in more affluent countries.
Josh Fitton, the lead author of the study and a sleep specialist at Flinders University in Australia, noted:
“A very small percentage of people are able to achieve the recommended levels of sleep and activity on a daily basis. We need to think about how these recommendations can be practically implemented and what we can do to help people follow them.”
Fitton also added that the study's results challenge conventional health recommendations, highlighting the difficulties many face in maintaining an active lifestyle and healthy sleep.
Interestingly, the study found a pattern: six to seven hours of sleep correlate with the highest number of steps the following day, supporting the hypothesis that rest is key to an active life.
Other studies also emphasize the close relationship between sleep quality and physical activity. For example, a review in Frontiers in Physiology (2024) indicates that regular physical exercise improves sleep quality, while lack of sleep reduces workout effectiveness.
According to the researchers, if people have limited time, they should prioritize sleep before physical activity.
Co-author of the study and professor at Flinders University Danny Eckert added:
“Prioritizing sleep may be the best way to boost energy levels, motivation, and physical activity. Simple changes, such as reducing screen time before bed, sticking to a sleep schedule, and creating a calm environment for rest, can significantly improve the situation.”
