Sydney, Dec 8: New global research from Flinders University suggests that sleep quality may be the key to boosting physical activity, with most people failing to meet recommended health targets for both rest and movement.
The study analysed more than 28 million days of real-world health data from over 70,000 individuals worldwide and found that fewer than 13 per cent consistently achieve the widely promoted benchmarks of seven to nine hours of sleep and at least 8,000 steps per day.
Researchers say the findings highlight how challenging it is for people to balance sleep and activity in daily life.
Using data collected over three and a half years from consumer health devices, the team observed that many participants fell short of both goals.
Nearly 17 per cent averaged less than seven hours of sleep and fewer than 5,000 steps daily—levels associated with increased risks of chronic illness, weight gain and mental health concerns.
Lead author Josh Fitton from Flinders University says the results clearly show that sleep has a stronger effect on next-day activity than physical activity has on sleep, underscoring the importance of prioritising rest.
The study also revealed that the highest step counts were linked not to the longest sleep durations but to nights with around six to seven hours of rest, particularly when sleep quality was high and interruptions were minimal.
Researchers say the findings raise questions about whether current health guidelines are realistic, given how few people can achieve both targets consistently. They stress the need for more practical, integrated recommendations that reflect real-world pressures.
Senior author Professor Danny Eckert notes that focusing on sleep may be the most effective first step for people juggling work and family demands, as improved sleep can enhance energy, motivation and the capacity for movement.
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