Engagement in fitness activities in England

Abstract

Analysis of Active People and Active Lives survey data indicates the growing popularity of fitness activities in England. Of further interest is the appeal of fitness activities to particular demographic groups (e.g. women, people from black and Asian backgrounds) typically under-represented in sport and physical activity. The socioecological systems model (Bronfenbrenner in Child development 45: 1-5, 1974) provides a useful framework to discuss both engagement in fitness activities and their provision. The current supply of fitness activities in England is a dynamic mix of private, public and third sector suppliers with a strong market orientation that provides a plentiful, diverse, convenient and appealing range of opportunities to engage.