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Eurobarometer Survey on Sport and Physical Activity highlights large disparities among Member States

A special Eurobarometer Survey on Sport and Physical Activity was carried out in late 2009. The results show that while a majority of European citizens play sport or do some other form of physical exercise at least once a week, a worrying 25% of respondents say that they are almost completely inactive. Men play more sport and also exercise more than women. Health-related concerns are the most common reason for exercising.

The survey reveals large disparities among Member States. Citizens of the Nordic countries are the most active in the EU while citizens of Mediterranean countries and the 12 new Member States tend to exercise less than the EU average. There are also large disparities in voluntary activity in sport as well as in the percentage of citizens who feel that their local authorities provide them with opportunities for physical exercise.

 

With the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty in December 2009, the EU has got a new supporting competence for sport. Against this background, the Eurobarometer results will be useful as they contribute to an evidence base for targeted policy actions in the field of sport at both EU and national level.

 

To see the full results of the Eurobarometer please follow the link:
Eurobarometer Special Survey 334

Press Release IP/10/383

Last update: 19 January 2012

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