The summer of 2020 presented a long-awaited opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, especially after a prolonged lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The isolation led many people to seek alternatives to confinement, leading to an increase in outdoor sports. According to data collected from Suunto device users, cycling, hiking, and trekking experienced significant growth, while running, both in the mountains and on road, also showed increases.
Interest in cycling increased by 36% compared to the previous summer, while hiking grew by 30% and trekking by an astonishing 46% . There was also an increase in running, with a 7% rise in trail running and a 6% increase in road running. This data underscores the trend among Spaniards to reconnect with nature and explore their surroundings, seeking adventures in the mountains and on two wheels.
The figures provided by Suunto not only reflect a change in habits, but also a search for well-being and physical health in uncertain times. The desire to get outside and enjoy the natural environment has led to a shift in mentality toward sports, transforming free time into opportunities to stay active.
Suunto adapts its watches to outdoor sports
The rise in popularity of outdoor sports has prompted Suunto to launch new features in its sports watches to enhance the outdoor training experience. These innovations are designed to maximize safety and effectiveness during exercise in natural environments.
Among the most notable features is the "safe" mode , which provides crucial information such as latitude, longitude, distance, and altitude difference from the starting point. It also offers alerts about weather changes and potential storms, which can be vital for those who practice mountain sports.
Additionally, the "climb" mode allows users to obtain real-time information on the percentage of incline and other relevant parameters during ascents, such as vertical speed and the number of hills. This enables users to adjust their effort and optimize their performance during training.
For those who prefer to train on asphalt or flat terrain, Suunto has incorporated features such as "sprint ," which automatically detects sprints as the running pace varies, as well as "loop ," which allows measuring times, distances, and efforts on repeated circuits, making the watch a versatile tool for all types of athletes.
The rise of technology in sports has provided fitness enthusiasts with tools that facilitate safer and more effective training, aligning with the growing demand of sports enthusiasts looking to improve their performance and make the most of their time outdoors.
The influence of COVID-19 on sports practice
Since the start of the pandemic, interest in sports has increased considerably, driven by individuals' need to adapt to a new reality. The restrictions imposed during the lockdown led many to rethink their habits, prompting them to seek alternative ways to maintain physical activity.
According to a report by the Spanish National Sports Council (CSD), 71% of the population engaged in sports activities during the lockdown, although most did so at home. With the lifting of restrictions, this trend continued, reflecting a shift in how Spaniards relate to physical activity.
Surveys of sports habits in Spain in 2020 revealed that many people took up sports as a response to the lockdown. This quest for well-being was driven by the need to combat mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, exacerbated by social isolation.
Later, a significant increase in participation in individual and outdoor sports was noted. As conditions improved, it's clear that the desire to explore and connect with the natural environment became a priority for many, leading to a boom in activities such as hiking and cycling.
The evolution of sports statistics
According to data collected by the 2022 Sports Habits Survey in Spain, nearly six out of ten people aged 15 and over have practiced sports regularly or occasionally, although a slight decrease has been observed compared to 2020. However, it is important to note that these figures are still higher than those recorded before the pandemic.
- 57,3 % of the Spanish population has practiced some sporting activity.
- Un 23,8 % of those surveyed said they do so daily.
- Hiking and mountaineering, along with cycling, are the most popular activities.
- Gender gaps in sports practice have narrowed, although they still persist.
The most popular form of exercise in 2022 was hiking, followed by cycling and gymnastics. This shift reflects a shift toward activities that not only promote physical health but also allow for safe social interaction, an aspect that became essential during the pandemic.
Women in sport
One significant development that has emerged since the pandemic is the increased participation of women in sports. While a gender gap has historically existed in sports participation, recent figures show a significant rise in female involvement. According to the survey, 51,8% of women in Spain participate in sports, a considerable increase compared to previous years.
This phenomenon has been linked to the desire to improve health and well-being, as well as the increased visibility of female athletes in the media. Women are beginning to take a more active role in different disciplines, which contributes to closing the gender gap in sports.
New sports trends
As the pandemic has evolved, so have trends in sports practice. One of the most notable has been the rise of home fitness , where people choose to exercise at home using apps and online training platforms. This shift has allowed many to maintain their exercise routines despite restrictions.
During the home fitness boom, there was a significant increase in demand for home exercise equipment. According to industry data, products such as stationary bikes, weights, and yoga mats quickly sold out in stores. This phenomenon not only highlights the interest in staying active but also reflects a shift in mentality toward exercising at home.
Gyms and fitness centers have had to adapt to this new reality, incorporating virtual classes and online workouts to stay relevant in a constantly evolving market. Combining in-gym and home workouts seems to be the future of fitness, allowing users to enjoy the flexibility they seek.
The impact of COVID-19 on sporting events
The sporting events sector has seen a significant shift in the way events are organized and delivered. Attendance restrictions and safety measures have led many organizers to rethink their strategies. While some in-person events have returned to life, many fans still feel uncomfortable attending in person, leading to an increase in virtual participation.
The rise of virtual races and hybrid events, which allow users to participate remotely, has become a popular option. This has not only kept people active and involved in their favorite sports, but has also allowed more people to participate, regardless of their geographic location.
Digital platforms and apps will play a crucial role in the future of sport and event organization, enabling broader access to activities and encouraging greater participation.
Tips for maintaining physical activity post-COVID
As the health situation evolves, it's vital that people continue to find ways to stay active. Here are some tips to maximize physical activity:
- Establish a routine: Set specific times to exercise; this will help you stay consistent.
- Vary your activities: Combine different disciplines to avoid boredom and work different muscle groups.
- Seek social support: Play group sports or join online communities that share your interests.
- Listen to your body: It's important not to push yourself too hard and allow your body to adapt to new routines.
Playing sports not only improves physical health but also has a positive impact on mental health. Staying active is essential for quality of life and overall well-being.
The sports landscape in Spain has changed dramatically in recent years, and while the pandemic brought significant challenges, it also opened the door to new opportunities and trends that are here to stay. Sport has gone from being a secondary activity to becoming a priority in many people's daily lives, marking a shift in the way Spaniards relate to their health and well-being.
Playing sports has become a habit that not only competes with a sedentary lifestyle but also contributes to a more active and healthy life, a positive legacy the pandemic has left in society.