Americans engaged in sports per day US 2023

In 2023, it was found that 22.4 percent of men in the United States participated in sports, exercise, and recreational activities daily, compared to only 19.9 percent of women. These statistics highlight a notable difference in the daily engagement of different genders in sporting activities. Other factors influencing this participation include socioeconomic status, age, disability, ethnicity, geography, personal interests, and societal expectations. These barriers can prevent individuals from having equal access to, and opportunities for, sport participation.

What role does gender play in sports participation?

Historically, many sports have been segregated by gender, with men and women participating in separate leagues and competitions. This segregation has led to a lack of opportunities for women and girls to participate in sports at the same level as men and boys. Additionally, societal attitudes and stereotypes about gender can discourage women and girls from participating in sports or limit their access to resources and support for their athletic pursuits. This often results in fewer women and girls participating in sports and a lack of representation of women and girls in leadership roles within the sports industry. However, in recent years, there has been an increased focus on promoting gender equality in sports and providing equal opportunities for men and women to participate in sports. This includes initiatives to increase funding and support for women's sports, as well as efforts to challenge gender stereotypes and discrimination in the athletic world.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sports participation

The COVID-19 pandemic led to many people spending more time at home due to lockdowns, remote work, and school closures. This resulted in many people having more time to engage in sports and other physical activities, as seen in the share of the U.S. population engaged in sports and exercise peaking in 2020. With gyms and sports facilities closed or with limited access, many people turned to home-based workouts and other activities. This included activities such as running, cycling, and strength training that could all be done at home with minimal equipment. Online classes and streaming services also saw an increase in usage during the pandemic, providing people with access to a wide range of workout options and fitness programs.

Average percentage of the population engaged in sports, exercise, and recreation per day in the United States from 2010 to 2023

Characteristic	All	Men	Women
2023	21.1%	22.4%	19.9%
2022	20.1%	21.2%	19.1%
2021	21.5%	23.4%	19.6%
2020	23.4%	24.2%	22.6%
2019	20%	21.7%	18.5%
2018	19.1%	21.1%	17.2%
2017	19%	20.2%	17.8%
2016	20.9%	22.7%	19.2%
2015	20.4%	22.9%	18.1%
2014	19.1%	21.5%	16.8%
2013	18.6%	21%	16.3%
2012	19.3%	21.7%	17%
2011	18.6%	20.4%	16.9%
2010	18.5%	21.5%	15.6%

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Release date

June 2024

More information

Region

United States

Survey time period

2010 to 2023

Number of respondents

Approx. 8,100 (2022)

Age group

15 years and older

Method of interview

Computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATI)

Supplementary notes

Sports, exercise, and recreation activities include participating in - as well as attending or watching - sports, exercise, and recreational activities. Recreational activities are leisure activities that are active in nature, such as yard games like croquet or horseshoes.

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