Research has revealed a striking generational divide in daily physical activity, with older UK workers outwalking their younger counterparts by almost 1,000 steps a day.
Analysing anonymised step count data from its user base, benefits provider YuLife found that Generation X (born 1965–1980) is the most active generation, averaging 7,327 steps per day. In contrast, Gen Z (born 1997–2012) averages just 6,360 steps, which is the lowest of any working-age group. Millennials (1981–1996) average 6,937 steps, while Baby Boomers (1946–1964) average 7,114.
The provider said this generational gap challenges assumptions about younger adults being more active and health-conscious. Whether due to lifestyle, job structure, or screen time habits, Gen Z appears to be moving less than expected. “It’s a wake-up call for campaigns targeting young adults: digital awareness doesn’t always translate to physical action,” YuLife said.
The research also uncovered when the UK is most active. Lunchtime sees the highest levels of movement, with an average of 586.9 steps taken per person at 12 noon. Step counts build from 7am to 8am, peak around midday, and then gradually decline. By 8pm, step counts nearly halve, and by 10pm, they fall sharply.
The provider says this pattern reflects broader issues. People move most when they are free from structure, but when the day is dictated by meetings, screens, or evening fatigue, step count is reduced. YuLife says this is a “missed opportunity”, because if people can hit peak movement at lunch, there is potential to do more throughout the day.
“This data makes one thing clear: movement isn’t just a personal responsibility, it’s a structural issue,” the provider said. “When step counts vary by region, gender, generation, and even time of day, it’s not because some people care more. It’s because some people have the space, support, and freedom to move, and others don’t.”
Sammy Rubin, CEO and Founder of YuLife, said: “We talk a lot about health, but the reality is: most people are set up to fail. The system waits until we’re unwell to intervene, and by then, it’s often too late. At YuLife, we’re flipping that model. Our mission is to make prevention part of daily life, not an afterthought.
“This data proves that the building blocks of wellbeing, like movement, are unevenly distributed across the UK. It’s not about willpower. It’s about time, access, environment, and support. If we want to improve the nation’s health, we need to stop reacting and start redesigning the system around people’s real lives. That means giving everyone more chances to move, rest, and reset – not just occasionally, but every single day.”
