Comparative analysis of the physical activity level in Europe and Russian Federation

Aim. The goal of this research is to study the physical activity level of the population in the European countries and Russian Federation, as well as to estimate the frequency of physical activity depending on gender and age. Apart from this, the paper aims to estimate the motivational factors for physical activity and factors which act as an obstacle to regular training. Material and methods. Eurobarometer surveys held in 28 European countries, a sociological survey conducted by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center (VTsIOM) and the Federal Scientific Center of Physical Culture and Sports under the Federal Project “Sport is the norm of life”, as well as the statistics published on the official website of the Ministry of Sport of the Russian Federation served as a basis for the comparative analysis. Results. The countries with the highest and lowest physical activity level were established together with the frequency of physical activity. The comparative analysis of motivational and demotivational age-dependent factors for physical activity was conducted; the level of satisfaction with the conditions for physical activity in Europe and Russia was determined. In the Russian Federation, the number of people who engage in physical activities has been increasing every year, currently constituting 39.8%, while the average rate for Europe is 40%. Motivational and demotivational factors are similar in general both for Russia and Europe. The level of satisfaction with the conditions for physical activity is also relatively high. Conclusion. The statistically significant correlations of population involvement in physical culture and sport have been found. Positive trends in all age groups are recorded, and the number of people regularly engaged in physical activities has been increasing every year.