The pandemic of physical inactivity is a major public health issue, ranking as the fourth leading cause of death globally. Despite evidence of its health benefits since the 1950s, efforts to promote physical activity have lagged, with only recent development of infrastructure in planning, policy, leadership, and advocacy. A systems approach is needed to address the complex interactions of physical inactivity, rather than focusing solely on individual behaviour. The global challenge is amplified by the risk of physical inactivity contributing to non-communicable diseases, with estimates suggesting that 6–10% of such deaths are attributable to inactivity. Physical inactivity is also associated with significant economic and social burdens, including high healthcare costs and indirect economic costs. Global efforts to address physical inactivity have been limited, with physical activity often coupled with other public health agendas. However, there is a growing recognition of the need to treat physical inactivity as a standalone public health issue. The development of national policies and action plans is crucial, as well as the establishment of regional networks to support physical activity promotion. These networks have shown promise in fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the development of good practices. Training and professional development are essential to build a workforce capable of addressing physical inactivity. International efforts, such as the Journal of Physical Activity and Health and the International Society for Physical Activity and Health, have played a key role in advancing the field. However, more work is needed to ensure that physical activity is prioritised as a public health issue, with a systems approach that considers the interplay of individual, social, environmental, and policy factors. Monitoring and surveillance are critical to understanding the prevalence and trends of physical inactivity, as well as the effectiveness of interventions. Comprehensive surveillance systems, such as those in Canada, provide valuable data for policy and practice. However, gaps remain in the availability and standardisation of data, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. A systems approach is necessary to address the complex nature of physical inactivity, considering the interactions between various sectors and the need for coordinated action. This includes the development of policies that promote active transportation, improve urban planning, and support physical education in schools. The call to action includes the need for global leadership, the adoption of evidence-based strategies, and the integration of physical activity into public health models. In conclusion, the pandemic of physical inactivity requires a coordinated, systems-based approach to address the complex interactions that contribute to inactivity. This includes the development of national policies, the establishment of regional networks, the training of professionals, and the integration of physical activity into public health models. The goal is to ensure that physical activity is prioritised as a public health issue, with a focus on improving the health and well-being of populations worldwide.The pandemic of physical inactivity is a major public health issue, ranking as the fourth leading cause of death globally. Despite evidence of its health benefits since the 1950s, efforts to promote physical activity have lagged, with only recent development of infrastructure in planning, policy, leadership, and advocacy. A systems approach is needed to address the complex interactions of physical inactivity, rather than focusing solely on individual behaviour. The global challenge is amplified by the risk of physical inactivity contributing to non-communicable diseases, with estimates suggesting that 6–10% of such deaths are attributable to inactivity. Physical inactivity is also associated with significant economic and social burdens, including high healthcare costs and indirect economic costs. Global efforts to address physical inactivity have been limited, with physical activity often coupled with other public health agendas. However, there is a growing recognition of the need to treat physical inactivity as a standalone public health issue. The development of national policies and action plans is crucial, as well as the establishment of regional networks to support physical activity promotion. These networks have shown promise in fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the development of good practices. Training and professional development are essential to build a workforce capable of addressing physical inactivity. International efforts, such as the Journal of Physical Activity and Health and the International Society for Physical Activity and Health, have played a key role in advancing the field. However, more work is needed to ensure that physical activity is prioritised as a public health issue, with a systems approach that considers the interplay of individual, social, environmental, and policy factors. Monitoring and surveillance are critical to understanding the prevalence and trends of physical inactivity, as well as the effectiveness of interventions. Comprehensive surveillance systems, such as those in Canada, provide valuable data for policy and practice. However, gaps remain in the availability and standardisation of data, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. A systems approach is necessary to address the complex nature of physical inactivity, considering the interactions between various sectors and the need for coordinated action. This includes the development of policies that promote active transportation, improve urban planning, and support physical education in schools. The call to action includes the need for global leadership, the adoption of evidence-based strategies, and the integration of physical activity into public health models. In conclusion, the pandemic of physical inactivity requires a coordinated, systems-based approach to address the complex interactions that contribute to inactivity. This includes the development of national policies, the establishment of regional networks, the training of professionals, and the integration of physical activity into public health models. The goal is to ensure that physical activity is prioritised as a public health issue, with a focus on improving the health and well-being of populations worldwide.