Updating national physical activity guidelines based on the global WHO guidelines: experiences and challenges from Switzerland

Abstract

Physical activity guidelines are recognized as an important element of a national approach to promote physical activity. This publication summarizes the approach and process taken to update the Swiss Guidelines, presents a summary of the updated guidelines and discusses experiences and identifies challenges. The multistage project involved: 1) to summarize the scientific evidence underpinning the 2020-edition of the WHO guidelines; 2) to systematically analyze the existing Swiss guidelines for different target groups and to develop proposals for updates 3) a participatory process to gain consensus with the main interested groups 4) to finalize the guidelines. Updated guidelines were adopted for infants, pre-school children, children and young people, adults, older adults and pregnant and postpartum women, in most cases following the WHO guidelines. Children, young people and adults living with disability and adults and older adults with chronic conditions are specifically addressed in each of the general guidelines for healthy populations, rather than developing separate guidelines for each of these groups as done by the WHO. The systematic approach in identifying aspects to update, the participatory approach and a scientific consortium and project coordination group with different thematic backgrounds were key strengths in the process. Challenges included the large amount of feedback and finding scientifically sound compromises. The updated versions of the Swiss national guidelines provide an excellent basis to further promote physical activity in Switzerland. A remaining key task is to develop a range of communication tools and materials for different target groups beyond the circle of experts and interested groups, considering available evidence on optimal messaging and best outlet tools and channels. To track population prevalence, inform policy and evaluate physical activity promotion at national and sub-national level in a timely fashion, strengthening existing physical activity monitoring will be important.