A recent analysis conducted by the Czech Council for Children and Youth (CRDM) sheds light on concerning trends in youth sports participation and attitudes within the Czech Republic. The analysis, based on the Lifestyle 2022 study conducted by the Kantar agency, paints a picture of a significant portion of young people disengaged from regular physical activity.

The study indicates that 6% of young individuals aged 16 to 30 in the Czech Republic do not participate in any form of sports, while an additional 18% engage in sports less than once a month. This disconcerting data underlines a lack of physical activity among a notable segment of the youth population.

The analysis further highlights that a majority of young Czechs hold either an indifferent or negative attitude towards sports. While 43% of respondents expressed a positive attitude towards physical exercise, around 35% conceded that while they recognize the health benefits of sports, they only sporadically engage in it and do not particularly enjoy it. Approximately one-fifth of respondents indicated a dislike for sports, with 12% actively avoiding physical activity.

Gender disparities are evident in the data as well. Men demonstrated a greater inclination towards exercising, with 37% participating in sports three to four times a week, compared to 25% of women. Men also reported a higher enjoyment of their sporting activities.

Educational background emerged as another influential factor. University and college graduates were more active in sports, with nearly 70% of them engaging in physical activity at least once or twice a week. In contrast, this figure dropped to 53% among primary school and apprentice school graduates.

The analysis provides insight into the challenges faced in achieving the goals set out by government initiatives such as Health 2020 and Sport 2025, which aimed to increase physical activity among Czech citizens. Miroslav Jansta, the chairman of the Czech Sports Union (CSU), expressed concerns that the Czech Republic is lagging behind other European countries in terms of promoting sports education and nurturing physical literacy among the population.

This analysis serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of fostering a positive attitude towards physical activity from a young age, with potential implications for both individual well-being and the broader health of the population. It also underscores the need for targeted efforts to engage and motivate young people to adopt healthier lifestyles and participate in regular exercise.

Article by Prague Forum