Is our youth cycling to health?

The aim of this Report Card was to provide an overview of the methods and results of the first Dutch Report Card. This is the English full version. You can download the small Dutch version as well as the full English version of the report at www.activehealthykids.nl.

The results showed that sedentary behavior and overall physical activity levels of Dutch youth are not meeting current guidelines or norms. Over the past 5 years 43% of the 4- to 11 year olds sit more than two hours per day in front of the computer or television and 71% of the 12-17 year olds does not engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity every day. Fortunately, behaviors in sports, active transportation and active play are satisfactory. Almost three-quarters of youth (12-17 years) engage in sports weekly, cycles or walks to school for at least three days per week and plays outdoors weekly.