Can mega sporting events increase sports participation and physical activity among Canadian youth in urban centres?

Despite high hopes from host cities, there has been little reliable evidence to indicate that staging an Olympic Games has increased sport participation, and many studies have concluded that the 2010 Winter Olympic Games held... [ view full abstract ]

Despite high hopes from host cities, there has been little reliable evidence to indicate that staging an Olympic Games has increased sport participation, and many studies have concluded that the 2010 Winter Olympic Games held in Vancouver and neighbouring cities Richmond and Whistler had no measurable impact on physical activity or sports participation among Canadian youth at the national or provincial level. However, using data from the Canadian Community Health Survey, Potwarka & Leatherdale (2015)1. found that the proportion of female youth classified as moderately active/active during leisure time increased substantially in one of the 2010 Winter Olympic host cities (Richmond) between 2009-2010 (pre event) and 2011–2012 (post event).

Method: This study sought to further explore the impact of the 2010 Winter Olympics on exercise and sports participation among Richmond youth using data from the 2008 and 2013 BC Adolescent Health Survey (n= 3,000 Richmond youth aged 12-19).

Results showed that participation in organised sports (with a coach) and informal sports (without a coach), and dance and exercise classes decreased between 2008 and 2013, reflecting the provincial trend. However, male and female youth who perceived there to be more sports opportunities available to them as a result of the Games reported higher levels of participation in organised and informal sports than those who did not perceive there to be increased sports opportunities. Females also reported higher levels of participation in dance and exercise classes.

Similarly, youth who reported they were more physically active as a direct result of the city hosting the Games reported higher levels of weekly participation in organised and informal sports.

Conclusion: Mega sporting events like the Winter Olympics combined with the infrastructure they leave behind can be leveraged to increase sports and physical activity participation among youth at the municipal level.