During the IDF Europe Regional Council 2026 in Ljubljana, participants were introduced to “Football is Medicine”, a research-based initiative developed by the University of Southern Denmark to promote health prevention and healthy living through football-based physical activity. The framework has been applied across different population groups to support both prevention and management of chronic conditions.
Presented by May-Britt Skoradal from the University of the Faroe Islands, who collaborates closely with researchers from the University of Southern Denmark, the initiative aims to make physical activity accessible and engaging for all. A dedicated manual has recently been developed, adapting the Football is Medicine framework to the diabetes context, with a focus on supporting people living with type 2 diabetes.
Participants at the Regional Council had the opportunity to experience the approach first-hand through a demonstration session facilitated by May-Britt Skoradal and Camilla Prisak Pedersen, from the University of Southern Denmark, highlighting how football fitness sessions can be adapted to different needs and abilities.
IDF Europe is engaged in this initiative on two key fronts: contributing to the adaptation of the manual to ensure it reflects the needs of people living with diabetes and supporting the uptake and pilot implementation of the programme at national level in collaboration with member associations across Europe.
Those interested in learning more or exploring implementation opportunities are encouraged to contact IDF Europe Communication & Engagement Manager, Marian Brennan, at marian.brennan@idf-europe.org
