The physical, social and mental health benefits of sport, particularly organised and team sport, are well-documented. Despite this, studies show that physical activity among school-aged adolescents remains insufficient. This research project explored the levels of regular participation in sport among young people from 10 countries, their attitudes towards sports participation and the barriers – including current global challenges such as COVID-19 and the cost-of-living crisis – that prevent them from playing more sport.
The challenge
Youth participation in sport is known to provide health, educational and social benefits, including improved self-confidence, physical fitness, better academic performance and social connections. However, evidence shows that sporting and physical activity levels of school-aged children are inadequate. With limited knowledge about the barriers and current challenges young people face in participating in sport and physical activity, this project seeks to explore their attitudes and experiences. This understanding will inform strategies and policies to increase youth participation in sport and unlock its numerous benefits.
Solution
The UTS Centre for Sport, Business and Society (CSBS) was commissioned by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Allianz to produce this research report in support of their MoveNow programme. This programme aims to strengthen the role of sport participation and Olympism in creating a healthier environment for young people, building their engagement and confidence in the future.
To prepare this report, the team conducted a comprehensive literature review on the benefits and barriers to sport participation for young people globally. The review focused on peer-reviewed research-based publications, with a preference for articles published between 2013 and 2023. Additionally, the team conducted a market research survey of five thousand young people aged 12 to 24 in 10 countries (Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Nigeria, Spain, Switzerland, and the USA). Two thousand parents of 12 to 18-year-olds were also interviewed on this subject. The survey asked them about levels of sport participation, motivations, barriers and concerns, particularly in the context of current global challenges.
Outcome and impact
The research improved understanding of young people's attitudes towards sports participation and their regular participation in sport. Despite 72% of young people aged 12 to 24 believing sports participation is important, only 20% are active for five or more hours per week. The main barrier to playing more sport was having other responsibilities, followed by a reluctance to play sport alone or with unfamiliar people. Global challenges such as the cost-of-living crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, and climate change were also found to contribute to lower participation rates. Overall, females, young people from low-income households and those aged 20 to 24 reported lower levels of participation in sports and physical activity than their counterparts.
The CSBS team’s research findings and subsequent expert workshop are combined in a Catalyst for Change report which will highlight priorities for policy, practice, partnerships, and future research. It directly informs key programs and initiatives by the IOC and Allianz that are designed to ensure more young people benefit from participating in sport.
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