A life-course approach for understanding levels, trends, determinants and consequences of physical activity, and to inform interventions and policy for global action

Based in Brazil, Dr Hallal's research focuses on understanding how physical activity is affected by factors throughout the life course, beginning with maternal physical activity during the early phases of fetal development. Chiefly based on a longitudinal study design that follows 16,000 people in four cohorts, the research takes a multidisciplinary approach (based on epidemiology, social science and physiology) to understanding both the determinants of physical activity and its association with chronic disease. Dr Hallal’s strategy also involves coordinating both national and international health policy makers, to promote the uptake of research evidence in the design and evaluation of public health interventions aimed at promoting physical activity and health.