American's Delusional Regarding Their Health

Most Americans believe they are in better-than-average health for their age.
More than 1/2 of surveyed men and women believe they are in "good" or "excellent" shape.

After 18, lots of people drop out of sports, especially team sports.

45% of people surveyed didn't participate in any sports activities in 2007.

The 3 largest reasons for not participating:
**don't enjoy sports or fitness
**injury or health problem
**not enough time
Other reasons: too expensive and lack of opportunities to play

What would motivate them to participate:
**less expensive equipment/fees
**doctor's recommendation
**less intimidating atmosphere
**tax deduction for the cost

40% of male and 24% of female said NOTHING would motivate me!

Of the 55% who did participate, most popular activities:
35% fitness
23% outdoor sports
21% individual sports
11% team
11% water
8% racquet
6% winter

What would drive them to participate more:
50% more time
40% more disposable income
30% spouse/family member participation
30% better access to facilities
20% more organized activities

What would drive them to spend more money on sports:
55% more disposable income
26% tax decuction
18% test prior to purchase
17% innovative, new equipment
29% nothing

What is needed is more innovation and smarter marketing. Messages to the baby boomers, messages about the positive impact (and yes, congress is going to receive a bill about tax deductions for certain types of exercicse equipment/use fees).

Washington needs to provide backing (75.7 million in PEP grants will be awarded to schools and community based organizations). Washington needs to prevent sickness, not just provide after the fact.

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