Translational exercise biomedicine for healthy children: physical activity as a life-course prevention strategy

Background To examine physical inactivity in childhood and adolescence as a major life-course health challenge and to present translational exercise biomedicine as a framework for prevention-oriented action across healthcare, education, and public policy. Content This perspective synthesizes current evidence on the prevalence, determinants, and consequences of insufficient physical activity in children and adolescents, emphasizing these developmental stages as critical periods during which movement behaviours, physical literacy, and long-term health trajectories are established. It considers current international physical activity guidance, the prevention-oriented position of the European Federation of Sports Medicine Associations and emerging strategic frameworks supporting the integration of sports medicine into public health and preventive care. The perspective also examines key biological and clinical pathways through which physical activity influences cardiometabolic health, neurocognitive development, and future disease risk, and outlines translational strategies including regular moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, reduced sedentary behaviour, adequate sleep, high-quality physical education, active family and community environments, and multicomponent interventions supported by education and policy. Summary and outlook Physical activity should be regarded as a powerful preventive intervention with broad multisystem effects, while sports medicine should be recognized as a central pillar of preventive medicine. Translational exercise biomedicine provides a scientifically grounded and implementation-oriented model for improving child health across the life course. Further progress will depend on coordinated action across healthcare, education, and policy systems, including stronger integration of sports medicine training and exercise prescription into preventive practice.