Thousands seek solutions to inactivity crisis at Elevate 2017

Inclusivity in tackling the country's Inactivity crisis was the major theme at this year's Elevate Conference, which was attended by more than 4,000 professionals.

The two-day event, which was held at London's ExCel last week, attracted academics, allied healthcare professionals, policy makers, charity workers, local authorities, leisure operators and sport scientists.

Targeting hard to reach communities, a keynote debate ‘can you be fit and fat’ was led by former Olympian and sports scientist Professor Greg Whyte OBE. Other sessions included best practice for targeting the least active and the growth in outdoor activities.

Mike Goody, four-time Invictus Games Gold Medallist swimmer, said: “The impact of London 2012 on health and fitness has been incredible, but there is a realisation that issues like childhood obesity and inactivity still need to be addressed. As well as sports such as swimming and running, there are a whole range of inclusive activities for people to try. Having a disability does not limit how involved you can be.”

The exhibition, which included 209 speakers and 143 exhibitors, also had The Stage, Tech Lab and Evidence Base feature areas.

The Elevate Innovation Awards were also held, recognising outstanding products and solutions that tackle inactivity.

Max Quittenton, Elevate director, said: “We’re thrilled to have built upon the success of the inaugural show and proven just how important addressing inactivity is to professionals across the UK. There’s overwhelming support to keep discussions around these strategies ongoing to ensure advances in products, services and research progress. Only by doing this can we encourage as more people to engage in physical activity.”