Why Are People in Latvia Not Moving Enough? #BEACTIVE DAY Discussion to Explore Solutions for Physical and Mental Health

On 16 September at 14:00, the newly opened sports complex of Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) will host the #BEACTIVE DAY 2026 discussion “Sport for Physical and Mental Health: How Can We Get People in Latvia to Move More?”

The discussion will bring together experts from the fields of sport, health, science and public policy to address one of the key public health questions today — why, despite knowing the benefits of physical activity, do people still not move enough in their daily lives, and what can be done to change that?

This year, #BEACTIVE DAY focuses on mental health and wellbeing through physical activity. For this reason, the discussion will look not only at the impact of sport on physical health, but also at the role movement can play in reducing stress, improving emotional wellbeing and supporting mental health.

If We Know Movement Helps, Why Do We Still Not Move Enough?

Regular physical activity can become an important part of everyday wellbeing, yet people face many different barriers to becoming more active.

The participants will explore what stands in the way — whether it is lack of time, motivation, financial accessibility, the surrounding environment, established habits or insufficient support.

At the same time, the discussion will examine how physical activity can support mental health, reduce everyday tension and help people feel better overall.

The aim is not only to identify the challenges, but also to look for practical solutions — from individual habits and workplace environments to the role of the state, municipalities, educational institutions and sports organisations in encouraging a more active society.

Experts From Different Fields Around One Table

The discussion will feature:

• Edgars Pukinsks – Deputy State Secretary for Sport and Youth Affairs at the Ministry of Education and Science;
• Gints Kuzņecovs – Chairman of the Board of the Latvian Health and Fitness Association;
• Vladimirs Šteinbergs – President of the Latvian Sports Federations Council;
• Diāna Laipniece – Director of the RSU Sports Academy;
• Gundega Ulme – Lecturer at the RSU Department of Psychology, clinical and health psychologist;
• Aleksandrs Astafičevs – Lecturer at the RSU Sports Academy and psychological preparation coach;
• Prof. Māris Taube – psychiatrist and Head of the “Veldre” Clinic at the National Mental Health Centre.

The discussion will be moderated by Ansis Klintsons.

How Can Movement Become Part of Everyday Life?

The discussion will also address the role of the state and municipalities in promoting physical activity, the opportunities employers and educational institutions have to create more active environments, and the contribution of the sports and fitness sector.

The conversation will conclude with a very practical question — what can each of us do already tomorrow to help create a more physically active and mentally healthier society in Latvia?

The message of #BEACTIVE DAY is simple: movement does not have to begin with ambitious goals or a complicated training plan. Sometimes, the first small step is enough to gradually make physical activity part of everyday life.

The discussion will take place on 16 September at 14:00 at the RSU sports complex and will also be streamed live on the #BEACTIVE DAY Facebook page.

Stay active, feel better – together with others!

#BEACTIVEDAY #BEACTIVEDAY2026 #LVFA

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