The public health risks of physical inactivity have led many national governments to develop policies that aim to increase population levels of physical activity. There is however, little evidence available about the effectiveness of such strategies and physical activity leaders may also face challenges in securing sufficient levels of political will and lasting investment for physical activity. This article reports on a review of a national physical activity strategy in Scotland after 5 years of implementation and offers lessons that may assist policymakers, practitioners and communities seeking to mobilise political commitment and leadership for physical activity in their own countries.