9/20/13
Almost three in 10 Americans ages six and older (28%) are completely inactive-participating in no sports or fitness activities requiring physical exertion, according to the Physical Activity Council. One in three (33%) are “active to a healthy level,” defined as participating in a high-calorie-burning activity at least three times per week. Older adults are most likely to be inactive, though more than a quarter of 18-to-24-year-olds are inactive, as well.
Fitness sports are the most popular (61% of Americans ages six and older participated in 2012), followed by outdoor sports (49%) and individual sports (37%). Children and teens are more likely than adults to participate in team and outdoor sports and less likely to participate in fitness sports.
Swimming and bicycling are the most appealing sports among nonparticipants ages 25-64, while children ages 6-12 are most interested in swimming, camping, and martial arts (among those who don’t already participate in these activities). Adults ages 65 and older are especially interested in swimming and working out with machines.
SOURCE: “2013 Participation Report,” May 2013, Physical Activity Council, VJ Mayor, Director Marketing & Communications, Sports and Fitness Industry Association, 8505 Fenton St., #211, Silver Spring, MD 20910; 301-495-6321; vmayors@sfia.org; www.sfia.org; www.physicalactivitycouncil.com. Price: Available online at no charge.
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