Research by YouGov has shown 68 per cent of UK adults to be unaware of the fact that children should take part in 60 minutes of physical activity every day.

A survey of 2,071 UK adults carried out on behalf of Youth Sport Trust (YST) revealed that two in three either believed the target – set out by the Chief Medical Officer – to be less than 60 minutes, or had no idea that there was a recommended level.

Published at the start of the National School Sport Week, which is taking place until 28 June, the research also showed that only one in four (25 per cent) correctly said 60 minutes.

According to YST chief executive Ali Oliver, the study lays bare the need to educate parents and carers about the importance of exercise.

“We’ve seen a worrying trend in recent years of a decline in young people’s physical activity, and a squeeze on time allocated to good quality Physical Education," she said.

“With our new research showing that most people do not know how much physical activity children should be aiming for, it has never been more important to raise awareness of why this is so important."

She added that events such as the National School Sport Week do help highlight the issue to parents.

“Our work with schools across the country all year round shows the power of sport and play to improve young people’s confidence, tackle stress and equip them with the skills to succeed in life," she added.

“It is really encouraging that so many schools and organisations are joining together this YST National School Sport Week to champion the vital importance of PE, school sport and physical activity for every young person."