Co-producing a new tool to inform policy development in the field of physical activity promotion

BACKGROUND: While there are several approaches to collect data on physical activity (PA) promotion policies, some governments require more in-depth overviews to inform policy development. Recently, the German Federal Ministry of Health expressed its interest in collecting detailed data on target group specific PA promotion, as relevant competences are distributed across a wide range of political levels and sectors. METHODS: Based on relevant national and international guidelines, the TARGET:PA tool was co-produced by researchers and ministry officials. It includes (1) PA recommendations, (2) national prevalence rates, (3) recommendations for PA promotion, and data on national (4) routine practices, (5) pilot projects and (6) policies. In a first study, data were collected for children and adolescents in Germany using desk research, semi-structured interviews and secondary data analysis. RESULTS: A policy brief was developed. Results showed that 46% of the 3-6-year-olds fulfil WHO recommendations but only 15% of the 11-17-year-olds, and that girls are less active than boys. Currently, no valid surveillance data are available for children under the age of three. An overview of routine practices for PA promotion was compiled, and experts critically assessed their effectiveness, reach and durability. Overall, 339 target group specific projects for PA promotion were found, with 22 classified as examples of good practice. Relevant national PA policies were identified across different sectors and settings. CONCLUSIONS: The TARGET:PA tool supports the translation of research evidence into policy action as it is target group specific, has a unique focus on routine practices, and systematically identifies policy gaps. Starting in 2023, it will serve as a conceptual basis for the three additional PA policy briefs tendered by the German government. While developed to specifically suit the German context, it has the potential to be adapted to other countries and health behaviours. KEY MESSAGES: • The TARGET:PA tool was co-produced by researchers and government officials to inform policy development in the field of physical activity promotion. • The tool is target group specific, has a unique focus on routine practices, systematically identifies policy gaps, and has the potential to be adapted to other countries and health behaviors.