A recent survey highlights how many Russians still face barriers to regular physical activity. More than one in three respondents, about 37 percent, said they do not engage in sports because they simply cannot access or get close to organized athletic programs and facilities. The report notes that roughly 5.3 thousand people took part in the survey, providing a snapshot of lifestyle choices across the population.
Among the participants, 12 percent clarified that they do not participate in sports professionally, yet they uphold daily exercise routines and stay in good shape. About 6 percent reported attending yoga or stretching classes, while 5 percent said they frequented swimming pools or gyms. They explained that warming up and exercising after a workday is a standard part of their routine, underscoring the value they place on maintaining personal health despite busy schedules.
The data also shows preferences for specific activities: 4 percent felt cycling along city streets, in parks, or on rural roads was the best form of exercise. Jogging attracted 3 percent, and 2 percent enjoyed dancing as their main activity. The remaining 26 percent indicated that they were more involved in heavy physical labor rather than formal sports, tending to chores at home, taking care of gardens, or working on household plots in the countryside. This distinction points to a broader question about how daily life and occupational demands influence activity levels.
In looking at health implications, oncologist Vladimir Astashov pointed out that quitting unhealthy habits, avoiding underwire bras, adopting healthier eating patterns, and maintaining regular physical activity can reduce breast cancer risk. His remarks emphasize that lifestyle choices have tangible consequences for long-term health outcomes.
On the policy and economy side, Dmitry Chernyshenko, the Deputy Prime Minister responsible for physical culture and sports, commented that a population not engaging in sports can have broader economic repercussions. His observation frames sports participation not just as a personal health issue but as a factor that can influence productivity, healthcare costs, and overall economic vitality.