The article "The pandemic of physical inactivity: global action for public health" by Kohl III et al. highlights the global issue of physical inactivity, which is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide. Despite evidence supporting the health benefits of physical activity, efforts to promote it have lagged, with only recent developments in infrastructure, planning, policy, leadership, advocacy, workforce training, and monitoring. The authors argue that a systems approach, focusing on population-level interventions and the complex interactions among factors affecting physical activity, is necessary to address this pandemic. They emphasize the need for global capacity building, intersectoral collaboration, and advocacy to integrate physical activity into public health policies and practices. Key messages include the importance of national policies and action plans, leadership and advocacy, training and professional development, and comprehensive surveillance systems. The article calls for a coordinated effort involving various sectors and stakeholders to implement effective strategies and increase physical activity levels globally.The article "The pandemic of physical inactivity: global action for public health" by Kohl III et al. highlights the global issue of physical inactivity, which is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide. Despite evidence supporting the health benefits of physical activity, efforts to promote it have lagged, with only recent developments in infrastructure, planning, policy, leadership, advocacy, workforce training, and monitoring. The authors argue that a systems approach, focusing on population-level interventions and the complex interactions among factors affecting physical activity, is necessary to address this pandemic. They emphasize the need for global capacity building, intersectoral collaboration, and advocacy to integrate physical activity into public health policies and practices. Key messages include the importance of national policies and action plans, leadership and advocacy, training and professional development, and comprehensive surveillance systems. The article calls for a coordinated effort involving various sectors and stakeholders to implement effective strategies and increase physical activity levels globally.