What physical activity have you done today? Did you go jogging after breakfast or cycle to work? And did you go to soccer practice this evening? We asked around which sports the 35,000 over-18s surveyed regularly practice. Spoiler alert: Soccer isn't number one!
#10 Football
While Germans' favorite ball sport is especially popular for watching it on TV at home and celebrating goals, running around a field for 90 minutes is still too much for most. Only 1.9 percent of respondents attend soccer training regularly.
#9 Tennis/Squash/Badminton
While a few German athletes compete in major tennis tournaments, it's not a popular sport here. 2.3 percent of players exercise with tennis, badminton, or squash.
#8 Other team sports
Students, in particular, often meet up to do sports together after moving to a new city. 2.8 percent of Germans surveyed participate in team sports such as handball, basketball, volleyball, and similar activities. So, while it's not necessarily a trendy sport, it's certainly a good way to meet other people.
#7 Winter sports
How many of your relatives and friends go skiing, snowboarding, etc. in the winter? Certainly a few. But these are winter sports, which, as the name suggests, can often only be practiced during a specific time of year—or in a special indoor sports hall. Nevertheless, 3.2 percent of respondents practice these sports regularly.
#6 Nordic Walking
Although it's often considered a "sport for seniors," even people under 60 are increasingly venturing into brisk walking. 6.7 percent of survey participants regularly walk a distance with poles. It's also a nice way to chat with friends.
#5 Jogging
Whether as a pick-me-up right after waking up or as a workout after work, jogging has become a classic everyday exercise. It's good for the circulation and muscles. And 9 percent of respondents say it helps clear their heads.
#4 Strength training/gym
Regular gym visits are just ahead of jogging, at 9.1 percent. For people who don't want anyone watching them while they sweat, this is a great way to build muscle, lose weight, or simply get fitter.
#3 Swimming
Swimming pools and lakes are particularly busy in summer. In the heat and strong sun, it's more relaxing to swim a few laps than to go for a jog. Thanks to 10.8 percent, this cooling-off activity comes in third place.
#2 Gymnastics/Aerobics
This sport is particularly popular among women. 14.1 percent of respondents regularly practice gymnastics and aerobics, either at home with a DVD or in a larger group at the gym.
#1 Cycling
With gasoline prices soaring, more and more people are turning to environmentally friendly alternatives. 27.1 percent of respondents cycle regularly. Which is understandable, because in addition to the price, cycling to work is also much healthier...