Europeans are doing more physical activity, new Eurobarometer shows

Today, on the eve of the European Week of Sport 2026, the European Commission published the sixth Eurobarometer on sport and physical activity. The survey shows an increase in physical activity levels across the European Union compared to the last survey published in 2022. For instance, the share of citizens exercising several times a week has risen to 38% (up 6 percentage points), while the share exercising almost daily has increased to 9% (up 3 percentage points). At the same time, the share of Europeans who never exercise or play sport decreased from 45% in 2022 to 39% this year.

Health benefits and well-being as the main drivers of engagement

The main motivations cited are improving or maintaining physical health (44%) and relaxing (39%), with 26% engaging in sport or physical activity specifically to improve their mental health. If relaxation is counted as mental health support, 65% believe that the latter is the most important motivation.

Parks and outdoor spaces remain the most popular setting for exercise (47%, stable from 2022), followed by health and fitness facilities (up from 33% to 39%) and active commuting (up from 24% to 37% — the largest increase across all categories).

In terms of sport participation and engagement, there are notable differences across socio-demographic groups. Younger respondents, those with higher levels of education, and individuals with fewer financial difficulties consistently report higher levels of sport participation. Older respondents and retired people tend to participate less frequently. Gender differences are generally modest, with men slightly more likely to engage regularly in sport and physical activity.

European Week of Sport 2026 encourages everyone to #BeActive one step at a time