School PE Still Shaping Midlife Health, Study Finds

New research from Age UK highlights how negative experiences of school PE are continuing to shape attitudes towards physical activity decades later. The findings suggest that millions of people aged 50–65 remain reluctant to engage in exercise, with many recalling feelings of embarrassment, exclusion or low confidence from their school years.

According to the research, nearly half of mid-lifers once dreaded PE lessons, with millions reporting they have been put off sport or exercise for life as a result. This has ongoing implications for both physical and mental health, particularly as regular activity is key to maintaining wellbeing and independence in later life.

In response, Age UK has launched its Act Now, Age Better campaign, bringing together over 50 national sporting organisations to promote more inclusive, accessible and age-appropriate opportunities to get active. The campaign aims to help midlife adults overcome psychological barriers, rebuild confidence, and engage in movement in ways that support long-term health and social connection.

Find out more about the campaign here.