The report builds on extensive data-collection and analysis by EuropeActive and its academic partners. With more than 185 million visits analysed, the number of reported cases sits at 0.88, which is less than one case per 100.000 visits.

Research and evaluation partners have collected data based on more than 185 million visits to fitness clubs and leisure facilities with only 1,628 reported positive cases (of both members and staff) reported from operators based in Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and the UK. 

The SafeACTiVE study, commissioned by EuropeActive's Research Centre THINK Active, seeks to mitigate public health concerns (of both users and members), confirm that fitness clubs are safe environments with a relatively low transmission risk of Covid-19 infection, and offer the fitness and physical activity sector a strong argument for keeping fitness and exercise facilities open now that Covid cases are rising and new restrictions and lockdowns are once again being imposed across Europe. 

“The second SafeACTiVE report presents important data on the contribution that the fitness and leisure sector has made to supporting health and wellbeing throughout the pandemic. As Covid-19 continues to cast a long shadow over society, this report provides compelling evidence in support of prioritising physical activity in national policy and ensuring that facilities remain open to help sustain the physical and mental wellbeing of individuals and communities,” said Professor Rob Copeland, director of the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre at Sheffield Hallam University.