Why research into health and physical activity?

This chapter presents the context for the research methods, procedures and other activities outlined in other chapters in the book. It introduces some of the health issues prevalent in today's society, how these are related to a lack of physical activity, and why ongoing research into the relationship between physical activity and health is of significant importance. It introduces some of the concepts and factors that are associated with the reduction in daily physical activity that has become so pronounced in the last 60 years. It then indicates the potential for new technologies to assist the researcher in the collection and analyses of data, and why research methods will need to develop accordingly, whilst at the same time needing to combat the wealth of easily accessible misinformation and unsubstantiated opinions.