Active Lives Survey – Adults

We have analysed the available local and national data to better help you understand the trends. This has been presented in a report that includes the Children and Young People findings. And there is a lot of good news to be found in data.

The report shows a recovery: the overall figures tell us physical activity levels (both nationally, and in Sussex) are returning to pre Covid-19 levels. This report is the first release to cover a period without any Covid-19 restrictions since the pandemic. Nationally, and locally, activity levels were gradually increasing prior to Covid-19. It is no surprise that the Covid restrictions saw decreases in certain activities (like team sports), whilst others became very popular . But we can be optimistic that people recognise the range of benefits of moving more, from the physical to the social, and are becoming more active once again.

Although the general news is good, the overall picture is varies depending on people’s demographic features. The historical data shows women, people over 75, people in deprived areas, people living with disabilities or with long-term health conditions, and those from Black, or Asian ethnic backgrounds were most negatively impacted by the covid restrictions. This report contributes further evidence that these groups are recovering at lower rates when compared to the average figures.

Please find the details of what was reported here.

Please note Public Health England (PHE) include gardening and only include data for those aged 19+ so different activity rates are shown in the PHE data.

The Active Lives Survey asks people aged 16 and over across England about the sport and physical activities they take part in. The first survey was completed between November 2015 and November 2016. Further results are published twice a year.