On 4 November 2026, the World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry (WFSGI) announced an open letter bringing together 84 leading sporting goods companies and federations in a shared effort to tackle physical inactivity among young people.
The initiative responds to new global findings from the World Health Organization (WHO), revealing that 86% of adolescents do not meet recommended physical activity levels, while approximately 240 million young people aged 11–17 report no active days in a typical week. The findings also highlight persistent gender inequalities, with girls less active than boys across every region.
Four Shared Commitments to Drive Action
Recognising the urgent need for coordinated action, the 84 signatories have outlined four commitments:
01
Increase Youth Participation
Reach more young people, close the gender gap and engage the least active.
02
Share Knowledge
Exchange evidence-based approaches and effective practices.
03
Strengthen Partnerships
Build cooperation across sectors to create better opportunities.
04
Advocate for Change
Encourage policies that make physical activity more accessible.
Together, these commitments recognise that reversing physical inactivity requires more than individual initiatives. It calls for sustained cooperation across sectors to make physical activity safe, accessible, affordable and enjoyable for every young person.
Working Together to Help the Next Generation Move More
TAFISA welcomes the sporting goods industry's recognition that tackling youth inactivity requires greater collective action, particularly to reach the least active young people and address persistent barriers to participation.
These priorities closely align with TAFISA's ongoing advocacy for inclusive and accessible Sport for All. Through its global network and capacity-building programmes, TAFISA works with partners worldwide to strengthen grassroots sport, equip local leaders and organisations, and create more inclusive opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to participate in sport and physical activity.
The sporting goods industry has an important role to play in this effort. Its resources, reach and influence, combined with the expertise of grassroots organisations, governments and communities, can help translate shared commitments into meaningful action.
TAFISA welcomes this initiative as an important contribution to the wider efforts to address youth physical inactivity. Building on shared priorities and strengthening collaboration across sectors will be essential to creating lasting opportunities for young people to participate in sport and physical activity.
Read the WFSGI announcement and open letter 
