EU: distribution of exercise and sport participation in 2017, by age group and gender
Reasons for participation
The most frequently offered reason for participating in physical activity and sport include are to improve health and to improve fitness. Other popular reasons include relaxing, having fun and improving physical performance. Conversely the frequently offered reason for a lack of participation is a lack of time., followed by a lack motivation or interest.
Younger people do more sports
The positive correlation shown between the age of a respondent and the frequency with which they engage in exercise or sport could be related to these two frequently offered reasons preventing participation in physical activity. More information about sports in Europe can be found in the Dossier: Fitness industry in Europe.