New insights from the Fiji STEPS Survey 2025 reveal a concerning trend in the country’s health patterns, showing that more than half of Fiji’s population is not participating in any form of vigorous physical activity. The survey highlights that a striking 56.4 percent of respondents reported no engagement in such activities, with significant disparities noted among different demographics.
Particularly noteworthy is the pronounced gender gap in physical activity levels. A staggering 75.3 percent of women indicated they do not partake in vigorous exercise, compared to 38.5 percent of men. This disparity underscores the need for targeted interventions to encourage physical activity among women.
Age is another critical factor influencing activity levels. Among individuals aged 60 to 69, over 82 percent reported no vigorous physical activity, while a considerable 43.8 percent of younger individuals aged 18 to 29 also said they did not engage in such activities. This trend raises concerns about the long-term health implications for these age groups.
Sedentary behavior is alarmingly prevalent, with Fijians averaging nearly four hours each day spent sitting or reclining. Urban dwellers exhibited a higher level of inactivity, averaging 236 minutes daily, compared to their rural counterparts, who averaged 212 minutes. Furthermore, differences were observed by ethnicity, with Fijians of Indian descent logging more sedentary time than iTaukei Fijians.
Despite the low levels of physical activity, the survey revealed that nearly 60 percent of participants had been advised by healthcare professionals in the past year to increase their physical activity levels. This suggests a growing awareness of the importance of exercise among the population.
The survey also presents a “physical activity paradox” within Fiji; while rural residents accumulate more overall physical activity through daily tasks and labor, they report less vigorous activity compared to urban residents. This complexity reinforces the need for tailored public health strategies that can effectively address these disparities and promote healthier lifestyles across different communities.
The findings of this survey indicate an urgent need for initiatives that can bridge the gap in physical activity levels, emphasizing the significance of both vigorous exercise and reducing sedentary behavior for improved public health in Fiji.