Researchers in Wales have contributed to the third edition of the GoPA! Country Cards, which were presented at the HEPA Europe 2025 Conference. The cards monitor national efforts in physical activity research, surveillance, and policy across 186 countries.
The team responsible for Wales’ card was led by Professors Kelly Mackintosh and Melitta McNarry, co-directors of WIPAHS, working with Public Health Wales. The updated data shows that adult physical activity rates in Wales have increased slightly from 53% in 2020 to 55% in 2025. However, the policy rating for physical activity has shifted from “high” to “medium,” suggesting a need for renewed strategic focus.
Dr Amie Richards, research officer at WIPAHS and contributor to the card, stated: “Contributing to the Country Cards has allowed us to compile and share essential data that supports evidence-based decision-making and raises awareness of physical activity trends and gaps in Wales. These insights are vital for engaging stakeholders across academia, government, and public health.”
John Bradley from Public Health Wales added: “The completion of the GoPA Country Card for Wales once again contributes to the ongoing intelligence-led approach to physical activity policy and planning across Wales.
“WIPAHS have led the 2025 development of the Country Card in an efficient and robust manner and, alongside Public Health Wales, will continue to promote and disseminate the resource to ensure its impact across the system.”
This edition includes new indicators such as gender inequalities in participation and research. It also breaks down data by domains; for example, 52% of adults participate in active leisure activities while 39% use active transport methods.
To improve accessibility worldwide, all country cards are available in English as well as translations into 66 other languages—including Welsh—doubling translation coverage since 2020.
GoPA! has launched a redesigned website featuring an interactive dashboard and searchable policy directory aimed at making data more accessible.
Dr Michael Pratt, GoPA! Co-Chair said: “GoPA! has that data for almost every country in the world, and the quality and breadth of the data continue to improve. Now is the time to put the data to work to reduce physical inactivity worldwide.”
Physical inactivity continues as a leading risk factor for chronic disease globally. One-third of adults do not meet recommended levels of activity; regional averages range from about 5% inactivity in Africa up to nearly 10% in Europe and North America.
According to Dr Pedro Hallal, GoPA! Co-Chair: “Everyone conducting high-quality research in the field of physical activity and health recognises GoPA! The next step is to encourage governments worldwide to hold themselves accountable for promoting more active communities.”
Alongside this launch is GoPE!, a new initiative focused on school-based systems that released its own set of country cards together with those from GoPA!.