23rd September 2026
Earlier this year, the Guardian reported that more than 6,000 kids living with obesity, many of them just four years old, were treated at specialist NHS weight-loss centres known as Complications from Excess Weight clinics, first established in 2021. This network of 39 expert hubs opened across England to treat severe obesity.
It highlights the scale of the UK’s growing youth obesity crisis, and new research from a number of UK universities has found that just under 30% had autism while more than one in 10 (12%) had attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Further, nearly a quarter (24%) had a learning disability.
Rates of UK youth obesity worsened significantly during the Covid pandemic, as diets became less healthy and exercise rates dropped. But while the problem has historically been attributed to junk food, another potential cause is emerging as a key explanatory factor – absence from school – although this may not be the only reason behind the problem.
The research, reported by the BBC, shows that children are more active when they attend school, plus new regulations make it harder to find unhealthy food in school canteens. Recent rules, for example, have banned deep-fried food from institutional dinners. And even, for example, having to walk to school is beneficial.
According to the BBC, England’s 39 CEW clinics only reach 5% of eligible obese youngsters while, across the NHS, and for all ages, the yearly price tag of treating obesity-related ill health is an estimated £12bn.
All of the above arguably makes PE sessions in schools more important than ever. Research published in the Independent, for example, found that cognitive performance improved after a PE lesson, with working memory benefitting in particular. Meanwhile, the charity for older people Age UK has shown how early sports experiences can put off millions of us in midlife from getting and staying active.
Yet it was reported last year that the number of hours spent on PE in secondary schools across England had declined, according to the Youth Sport Trust. The organisation said 2.2m children in England are now completing less than half an hour of daily activity, with under 50% meeting the UK’s Chief Medical Officers’ recommendations of at least an hour’s daily physical activity.
Having pieces of outdoor gym equipment at a school can transform PE lessions by engaging pupils who may be put off by team sports. Children progress at their own pace, and can work out safely whatever their fitness level or ability.
With outdoor exercise equipment, you have the versatility to incorporate a warm-up, circuit training and more. These amenities build stamina and strength as well as endurance, balance and coordination. Plus they support learning goals in line with the National Curriculum.
Not only that, but young people enjoy all the benefits of working out in the outdoors and often grow in confidence and self-esteem.
At market leader Fresh Air Fitness, we’ve written extensively about the role of outdoor gyms in helping to combat the problem of childhood obesity, and how they support student health and wellbeing.
We work extensively in education across all levels from primary to secondary, with a service which takes clients from site inspection through design and production, installation and aftercare. Browse our extensive range of outdoor gym equipment, which suits all levels of ability and fitness, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.
There are many different funding options and grants for your school’s outdoor gym, and it’s always worth looking into the PE and Sport premium payment and being sure you’re making the most of this while available.
We’re the UK’s leading outdoor fitness equipment specialist and our fully compliant, top-quality products all come with a comprehensive 25-year warranty.
Get in touch to discuss how we could help you to tackle childhood obesity and transform PE sessions at your school. We’ll gladly answer any questions you may have and supply a quote with no charge or obligation.
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