26 580 people from all EU countries answered the survey. Respondents pointed to shortage of time being the main barrier to being active, while some respondents declared a lack of motivation or interest.

Up to 45% of Europeans never exercise or play sport. This was slightly stabilised compared to the previous Eurobarometer on sport, but shows that continued promotion for sport and physical activity is still clearly needed.

Meanwhile, the main reasons for being active were given as wanting to improve health, get fitter, and relax.

The survey also reveals that during the COVID-19 pandemic, half of Europeans reduced their activity levels or even stopped altogether.

EU-wide promotion for active lifestyles

These activity levels show why the European Week of Sport remains as relevant as ever before. In combination with the HealthyLifeStyle4All campaign, the European Commission raises awareness about the importance of an active healthy lifestyle.

Commission efforts to make sport and physical activity more environmental friendly are also appropriate, since they match with almost half of Europeans’ desire to be active outdoors. This contrasts with just over 33% of people who prefer to do sport at home, while just under a quarter say they are active on the way between home and schools, work or shops.

Finally, the survey shows that the gender gap around exercise levels remains in favour of men. This validates the Commission’s efforts to improve gender equality.