TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Taiwan Health Movement Alliance said around 80% of people in Taiwan aged 30–60 do not exercise regularly, a trend that could affect their health.

According to the Ministry of Sports, Taiwan ranks 88th globally in the proportion of people who exercise infrequently. About 50% of high school students and 65% of university students lack regular exercise habits, per CNA. Among office workers, the average daily step count is only 2,000–3,000, far below recommended levels.

To encourage exercise habits, the alliance will host a walking challenge from November to January 2026, aiming to increase the percentage of adults who exercise regularly to 40%. Participants must walk 7,000 steps daily and maintain their blood pressure and weight within healthy ranges.

The organizer said those who meet the daily goals throughout the challenge will have a chance to win an NT$1,000 (US$31) cash prize. It hopes companies will encourage employees to join, with a target of 15,000 participants.

In a walking challenge held by the group in May 2023, more than 86% of participants met the daily goal of 7,000 steps, with many coming from companies based in Taiwan’s science parks. The alliance hopes the goal-achievement rate will exceed 90% in the upcoming challenge.

According to the health ministry, nearly 50% of adults in Taiwan do not meet the WHO’s recommended weekly activity levels — 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity. The ministry warned that prolonged sitting may lead to obesity, chronic illness, and muscle or bone degeneration, urging the public to stay active by walking, cycling to work, or joining sports clubs.