A new tool has been launched to help healthcare professionals talk to patients about the benefits of physical activity.

The Moving Medicine tool is aimed at people working in roles such as doctors, nurses and physiotherapists to provide them with the latest evidence to address "a knowledge and skills gap in the NHS".

Designed by Faculty of Sport and Exercise Medicine UK – in partnership with Public Health England and Sport England – it will offer advice on how patients can manage their conditions, prevent disease and aid recovery through getting active.

Developed in consultation with more than 300 healthcare professionals and patients, the tool is based on evidence-based, step-by-step guidance and focuses on helping to address the most common long-term health conditions affecting the population – such as cancer, depression, musculoskeletal pain and type 2 diabetes.