Physical activity in Nepal at a crossroads

This guest editorial highlights Nepal’s transition in physical activity patterns amid rapid urbanization and economic change. While historically high activity levels were driven by occupational and transport-related demands, inactivity is rising—more than doubling between 2013 and 2019—particularly in urban populations. The authors emphasize gaps in national data, especially among children, and warn that declining physical activity could accelerate noncommunicable disease burdens, calling for stronger surveillance and policy action.