Physical activity and its relationship to health is one of the great issues of our age. The causes of, and solutions to, physical inactivity are complex and multi-dimensional, and therefore the subject needs to be studied and understood from a variety of perspectives. This is the first textbook to provide a truly multi-disciplinary introduction to physical activity studies.


Offering a complete foundation to the subject, it covers the basics of every core discipline from biochemistry, public health and biomechanics to physiology, sport psychology and sociology. It introduces a full range of topics across the physical activity curriculum, including behaviour change, motor skill development, nutrition, exercise prescription, public health policy, and physical education, providing a well-balanced and international perspective on each important issue. There is also a strong emphasis throughout the book on the practical, applied dimensions of physical activity, including innovative approaches to promotion and intervention tailored to every age range and environment.


Physical Activity: A Multi-disciplinary Introduction is an indispensable companion to any course or degree programme with an emphasis on physical activity and health. A variety of exclusive eResources to aid teaching and learning are also available via the Routledge website.