Age UK calls on the nation to Act Now, Age Better

New research released today, as part of Age UK’s Act Now, Age Better campaign, reveals that negative early PE experiences are one of the barriers stopping millions of those aged 50-65 from being physically active with the data showing that for many, this began decades ago as nearly half (6.7 million)  used to dread school PE lessons.

The campaign encourages mid-lifers to be active so they can live their best possible later life. With 4.1 million mid-lifers still feeling traumatised by PE lessons and a similar number, 4 million, put off exercise and sport for life by PE at school, Age UK is now bringing together the world of sport, physical activity and movement, on a scale not seen before, to inspire and encourage mid‑lifers to give PE another go.  And for those who used to enjoy it but may have fallen out of the habit, to rediscover the joy that sport can bring.

With sports groups now more inclusive, supportive and welcoming than they were 30-40 years ago, there’s never been a better time for mid-lifers to reconnect with fitness and find a community that truly embraces them. 

Age UK is working with over 40  sporting partners, including  Badminton England, British Cycling, British Rowing, EFL in the Community, England Boxing, England Netball, Everyone Active, Lawn Tennis Association, Muslim Sports Foundation, Pickleball England, Rugby Football Union, Ramblers, Sport England, Swim England, Team England - the nation's Commonwealth Games Team and Women in Sport*, to help to bring sport back into people’s lives and to help them find an activity that suits their goals and  lifestyle. 

With 5.9 million (42%) anxious about joining a sports group or class at their age Age UK has teamed up with sports organisations across the country to offer mid-lifers inclusive activities, from beginner classes to age-specific groups.From 21st April and throughout the summer, the campaign will showcase a wide range of sports and activities to try. 

Act Now, Age Better is being supported by a number of sporting figures and health experts including Sally Gunnell, Mark Foster, Dame Denise Lewis, Gabby Logan, Sir Muir Grey, Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi and Dame Kelly Holmes.