The Aim
The goal is to enable everyone in the fitness sector to achieve their full potential, addressing invisible barriers, biases, and systemic challenges hindering progress. This initiative aspires to set an example for other industries and deliver the largest research study on employment within the fitness sector.
Building on 2022
This initiative builds upon the efforts of 2022 initiatives on gender equity led by RISE and EuropeActive, including the "Career Progression in the Fitness Industry" study conducted by Aston University, which aimed to identify areas where support was needed for women and industry leaders to utilise their underappreciated talents and expertise fully. In the same year, EuropeActive, SportAlliance, and WIFA conducted a survey on Gender Equity in the Fitness sector to uncover perceptions of gender inequity among employees at all levels.
The Study
The key objectives of this research go beyond a one-time study; the partners are committed to establishing an evergreen dataset, with annual results published, including a summary featured in the European Market Report, to ensure the sustained development of a more inclusive and diverse fitness industry.
Diversity In the Fitness Sector 2024
This initiative builds upon the efforts of 2022 initiatives on gender equity led by RISE and EuropeActive, including the "Career Progression in the Fitness Industry" study conducted by Aston University. This study aimed to identify areas where support is needed for women and industry leaders to utilise their underappreciated talents and expertise fully. In the same year, EuropeActive, SportAlliance, and WIFA surveyed Gender Equity in the Fitness sector to uncover perceptions of gender inequity among employees at all levels.
The report provides an introduction to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) concepts and terminology, providing checklists for evaluating a company's current policies and programmes. It also includes curated DEI resources alongside the detailed quantitative and qualitative results of the survey.
Through this report, it aims to equip industry professionals with the necessary tools and insights to foster a more inclusive and equitable fitness sector.
The survey was conducted online and was live for data collection between November 1, 2023, and February 16, 2024. The survey was available in five languages: English, Spanish, German, French & Dutch. The survey was promoted via social media, industry press, personal networks and employee emails.
Survey Questions
Data on discrimination based on gender, sexuality, race, culture, religion, disability, and age were collected, along with demographic information. Respondents were also asked about the individual and business impact of inequalities and the factors that contribute to them. Personal comments from respondents enabled deeper insights into the impact of discrimination on their careers and well-being. Respondents also had the opportunity to highlight examples of good practice in DEI.
This comprehensive analysis underscores the importance of addressing discrimination and fostering a more inclusive and equitable fitness sector.
In total, 498 people responded to the survey. Of those who provided demographic data, 56% identified as female, 45% as male and less than 1% as another gender. The age and country breakdowns of respondents are provided below.
WIFA, Europe Active and SportAlliance completed a global survey exploring Gender Equity in the Fitness Sector published in 2022. Here are some of the key findings:
- 85% of males surveyed do not feel like there is gender bias in their workplace.
- Just 34% of men surveyed think that gender balance in leadership positions is important.
- The majority of women feel like gender inequality holds them back at work.
- Women in leadership feel like they had a harder time getting promoted because of their gender.
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Diversity in The Fitness & Physical Activity Sector Survey 2024-2025
October 8, 2024 Launch
The survey is open to all, and our partners distribute the questionnaire.
February 28, 2025 Data Set Frozen
The data from October 8th through February 28th is collected and analysed for the second report on Empowering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the European Fitness Sector Study.
April 10, 2025 Preliminary Results Published
A summary of the study will be published in the European Fitness Market Report. The Empowering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the European Fitness Sector Study will be distributed by Europe Active.
June 11, 2025 Report Publication
The comprehensive report is published.
Project Partners
A heartfelt thank you to our inclusion warriors for helping us launch this initiative.
Distribution Partners
Celebrating our partners who play a vital role in distributing the survey, ensuring comprehensive responses, and inclusive representation.
The Inclusion Group
The Empowering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the European Fitness Sector Study is an inspiring initiative led by EuropeActive's Inclusion Group. Are you ready to make a meaningful impact? Join us and be part of the change!
Saly Marone
Basic-Fit
Rachel Young
Myzone
Elena LaPetra
S7ronger
Tony Stone
Dance Glam
Jennifer Halsall
EuropeActive
Timothy Mathias
UK Active
