Inclusion at the core of the campaign
Bringing Added Value to Our Communities –
Every Year, With Purpose
Our mission is clear: to inspire more people to be more active, more often. But each year, we also go a step further – by focusing on groups that may face greater barriers to physical activity and by highlighting important themes that can shape a more inclusive and active society.
We follow a thematic approach, shining a spotlight on specific areas where targeted action can make a real difference:
- In 2022, we championed the engagement of women and girls, promoting more equitable access and inclusive environments.
- In 2023, we explored intergenerational inclusion, focusing on how physical activity can bring together people of all ages.
- In 2024, we’re addressing accessibility for people with disabilities and the sustainability of events, ensuring our actions are both inclusive and environmentally conscious.
- 2025: We highlighted the role of Health-Enhancing Physical Activity (HEPA) in the prevention and management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), emphasising how exercise can improve health outcomes and quality of life.
- 2026: We are focusing on Mental Health and Wellbeing, raising awareness of the powerful connection between physical activity and mental health, while encouraging more supportive, welcoming and inclusive environments where everyone can enjoy the benefits of movement.
Alongside our campaign activities, we produce expert-informed Guides filled with practical recommendations, evidence-based insights and best practices to support activity organisers, fitness professionals, healthcare stakeholders and communities. These resources are free to access and available in multiple languages, making them accessible to people across Europe.
Introducing the Mental Health and Wellbeing Guide
In 2026, #BEACTIVE DAY focuses on the powerful connection between physical activity, mental health and wellbeing. Regular movement has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety and depression, improve mood and self-esteem, strengthen resilience, and enhance overall quality of life. Through this year's campaign, we aim to raise awareness of these benefits and encourage more supportive, inclusive environments where everyone feels welcome to be active.
To support this mission, EuropeActive has developed the Mental Health and Wellbeing Guide, available free of charge in multiple languages. Written by Prof. Dr Richard Peter Bailey, Dr Ra'ed Ali Mohammaed Al-Khamaiseh, and Dr Nadia Samsudin from UCSI University, the Guide combines the latest scientific evidence with practical advice for fitness professionals, activity organisers, employers, educators and communities. It also features a foreword by former world number two tennis player and Eurosport expert Alex Corretja, who shares his personal perspective on the importance of staying active for both physical and mental wellbeing.
The Guide reinforces the central message of #BEACTIVE DAY: physical activity is one of the most accessible and effective tools we have to improve how we feel, connect with others, and build resilience throughout life.