NATIONAL FITNESS DAY 2021 has smashed all records on its 10th anniversary, with the physical activity sector inspiring 22.67 million people to get active on the day, according to new figures from ukactive and Savanta ComRes.
New figures released show:
- 22.67 million people were estimated to be active on National Fitness Day 2021 (up from 19.15 million 2020).*
- 11.35 million children (up from 8.67 million in 2020) and 11.32 million adults (up from 10.45 million in 2020)* were estimated to be active on National Fitness Day.
- 4,365 free activities and events took place across the UK, either physically or online, according to the National Fitness Day Activity Finder, in addition to many more.
- 18.26 million adults (an estimated 35% of the population) said they were aware of National Fitness Day (an increase from 32% in 2020).*
- 44.04 million people – the media reach of the 2021 campaign, through TV, radio and press coverage (up from 29.15 million in 2020).**
Huw Edwards, CEO of ukactive, said: “These figures show the incredible impact of National Fitness Day and the power of our sector to reach millions of new people and really get the nation moving more.
“National Fitness Day has grown to become one of the most important annual events for the UK’s physical and mental health; representing far more than a single day of activity, it is now a powerful trigger that inspires change for people and is inclusive of all ages, abilities and backgrounds, throughout the year.
“We want National Fitness Day 2022 to be even bigger, with more people getting active, so we are calling on everyone in the physical activity sector, as well as those in positions of political leadership, to join us in a united movement to get the nation moving.”
Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, Chair of ukactive, said: “After facing such a difficult time during the pandemic, it’s fantastic to know that so many people were inspired to be active by National Fitness Day.
“This campaign shows what can be achieved through collaboration with the Government and our sector, and we are determined to build on this success as part of our shared ambition to shift the dial on activity levels in the UK.”
The campaign helped shine a spotlight on the essential role of fitness and leisure facilities, and providers, in supporting the nation’s physical and mental health, as well as its social fabric.
This year marked the 10th anniversary of National Fitness Day, with the new figures highlighting its growth year-on-year.
The campaign was founded by fitness operator énergie Fitness in 2011 before being gifted to ukactive in 2014 to expand.
Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston MP said: “We know exercise and physical activity deliver huge benefits to our general health and wellbeing, so I’m delighted that record numbers of children and adults came out to support National Fitness Day 2021.
“Gyms and leisure centres play a crucial role in improving access to health and fitness activities for people from all backgrounds, so I would urge everyone to get along to their local facilities and make it National Fitness Day every day.”
