CIMSPA responds to the latest Active Lives adults survey from Sport England.
Updated Active Lives data reveals that more than 30 million adults in England are now meeting the recommended levels of physical activity, an increase of 859,000 adults compared to the previous 12 months.
Overall activity levels have improved, with the range of activities adults are taking part in become more diverse – sports like padel and fitness events such as Hyrox have contributed towards this variation.
Older adults are leading the charge for increased activity levels. With upwards trends across short and long term activity for adults aged 55 and over, more older adults are aware of the benefits of keeping active for their health and wellbeing.
There is also an upwards tick for the levels of activity for those who have a disability or long-term health condition, as there are now 5.4% more active adults in this group compared to nine years ago.
However, it is evident that significant inequalities continue to exist, and even in some cases, are widening.
Tara Dillon, CEO of CIMSPA said:
“Each year the Active Lives data is more and more encouraging – activity levels are continuously rising as we become a more active nation.
“More individuals are turning to physical activity to support their health and increase their longevity, which sport and physical activity professionals are taking great strides in supporting them to achieve their goals with their expertise and professionalism.
“Whilst some areas are showing positive increases, there are unfortunately still some groups of individuals and communities who are being left behind.
“Having a workforce representative of the community that it serves plays a significant role in encouraging active participation. Our local skills work aims to do just this – our workforce development managers are working in local areas to create skills plans for the area that reflects local need, and finding standards-driven training for local people to partake in.
“CIMSPA are also continuing work on making the sport and physical activity sector a desirable and accessible sector for individuals to develop a rewarding and sustainable career. Our work with the Department for Work and Pensions aims to break down barriers to enter our sector, and support individuals to build a valuable career that benefits themselves, but also their community.”