Key Takeaways
- The European Commission published the sixth Eurobarometer on sport and physical activity on 22 September 2026.
- Survey results show a clear increase in physical activity levels across the EU compared to the 2022 report.
- The findings were released on the eve of the European Week of Sport 2026 to support public health initiatives.
According to the European Commission, the sixth Eurobarometer on sport and physical activity indicates a measurable increase in physical activity levels across the European Union compared to the previous survey published in 2022. Released on 22 September 2026, just ahead of the annual European Week of Sport, the findings highlight changing lifestyle patterns and a growing engagement in fitness and recreational routines among citizens throughout the bloc. The data provides a comprehensive overview of how sport and physical exercise participation rates have shifted over the four-year period since the last comprehensive assessment. This positive trend aligns with broader European Union health and social policy objectives, which consistently emphasize preventive healthcare, public well-being, and active lifestyles to reduce the burden on national healthcare systems. Encouraging physical activity is a cornerstone of various EU initiatives aimed at fostering social inclusion, strengthening the single market for sporting goods and services, and promoting cross-border cooperation in public health. By tracking these metrics, EU institutions and national governments can better evaluate the effectiveness of past campaigns and direct funding toward targeted regional health interventions. For policymakers, businesses in the wellness sector, and citizens, these findings offer an encouraging signal that public awareness campaigns are yielding tangible results. However, maintaining this upward trajectory will require continued investment in local infrastructure, accessible community facilities, and inclusive sports programs. Stakeholders will closely monitor upcoming events during the European Week of Sport to build on this momentum, with further policy discussions and regional evaluations expected as member states adapt their national health strategies to meet future demographic challenges.
Source: European Commission. Read the original report ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the sixth Eurobarometer on sport and physical activity measure?
It measures levels of physical activity and sports participation across member states of the European Union, comparing current trends with data from the previous 2022 survey.
When was the survey published?
The survey was published by the European Commission on 22 September 2026, just ahead of the European Week of Sport 2026.