8.1 PRSR 02-10-2021
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and
community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
8.1
Agenda Section
Discussion
Meeting Date
February 10, 2021
Prepared by
Michael Hecker, Parks and Recreation Director
Item Description
Recreation Program Plan Discussion
Reviewed by
Cal Portner, City Administrator
Reviewed by
Action Requested
Discuss the Recreation Program Plan draft
Background/Discussion
Staff has been meeting the past month to develop a program plan to provide the framework for creating,
planning, and implementing programs. Overall, the plan will assist staff in justifying why and how to cancel
programs or start a new one.
Perhaps the most valuable planning element of the program plan are its program determinants – this assists
the department in recognizing the need to approach recreation programming in a way that emphasizes specific
individual, social, environmental, and economic benefits all based on constituent interests and desired needs. It
will become a valuable planning tool for our recreation programming staff.
Financial Impact
N/A
Mission/Policy/Goal
Ethical, efficient, and responsible
Attachments
Recreation Program Plan
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City of Elk River
Recreation Program Plan
INTRODUCTION
The Elk River Parks and Recreation Program Plan provides the long-term framework for creating,
planning, and implementing the innovative and inspiring programs demanded by the high expectations of
our Elk River community. The long-term goals are guided and determined by the current adopted (June
2015) Parks and Recreation Master Plan and basic underpinning of the concepts of play, recreation, and
leisure, the needs and other opportunities within our community, department philosophy and goals, and
true experiences desired for our customers.
The purpose of this plan is to ensure the department is providing mission-driven and guest-focused
recreation programming, which will enhance the quality of life for all who live, work, and visit the City of
Elk River.
WHY- RECREATION?
The recreation program offered to the public by the Parks and Recreation Department makes every effort
to be balanced, customer-driven and conceptually sound. To the outside observer, it may look like just an
assortment of fun activities and random events that are haphazardly put together to fill a month’s
calendar. However, in reality, the programs offered represent planning, program lifecycles strength,
outreach to targeted groups and customer feedback. A deeper look will reveal that the quality recreation
programs provided by the Parks and Recreation Department can and do help to develop the social,
physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of individuals, families, neighborhoods, groups, and our Elk
River community.
THE FOUNDATIONS OF PLAY, RECREATION AND LEISURE
Recreational experiences are more than just a fun way to spend a few minutes or hours. A quality
recreational experience will also provide opportunities for the participant to express the creativity,
develop their sense of self-worth, and make choices that will enhance their over-all well being and quality
of life. Programs do not, in themselves, create a recreation experience. Instead, they provide
opportunities for the participant to interact with the social, physical and natural environments; thus
allowing the participant to shape the recreation experience based on their own expectation, needs and
interests.
Recreation staff understand that quality recreation programs should be designed to promote a degree of
freedom, choice, or voluntary engagement. They should have a stated purpose or objective, be
wholesome, and encourage creative, spontaneous self-expression. Participants should not only feel a
sense of delight while actively participating in the program but should carry that sense of well being with
them into the future. It should give them a change for self-discovery and to develop individual skills such
as leadership, the ability to share, and to be able to get along well with others.
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A quality recreation program will provide opportunities for the pursuit of joy and pleasure, excitement,
challenge, and individual expression. Each recreation program planned by Elk River Parks and Recreation
has a stated, written objective and delivery method that address these fundamental concept
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW
The department was first created in 1990 ….
With 42 parks and recreation facilities and over 1,000 acres of parkland, the city is in great position to
strengthen the connections to nature for resident and visitors alike. The Great Northern Trail passes from
north to south through the city. Tonya will work on this. Programs-------------history
The Furniture and Things Community Event Center (FTCEC) softly opened in July 2020 as the
Multipurpose Facility right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. On Monday, October 19, 2020
the City of Elk River entered into naming rights agreement with Furniture and Things, a longtime local
business. The Center was closed most of November and December 2020 because of the pandemic and the
Governor’s Executive Orders.
The Center has a soft opening in January 2021. The soft opening included: limited Senior Center
programs, ice time, walking program, and in person registrations. It has the potential for program
offerings unsurpassed anywhere in the region. This state-of-the-art facility includes two ice arenas, a
30,000 S.F. field house, indoor tracks, a senior center, and a variety of program and multipurpose rooms.
FTCEC allows for all ages, genders, and cultures to utilize the space and all its amenities provided.
History on get to where we are today with the FTCEC. On November 6, 2018, a sales tax referendum
was passed 6,830 in favor (65%) and 3,702 against. It was a .5% sale tax on purchases within the City of
Elk River funding the construction of the FTCEC. We began demolition and construction in the early
Summer of 2019 with little setbacks. It was approximately a year of construction during the pandemic we
were able to have our soft opening in July 2020.
DEPARTMENT MISSION
Elk River Parks and Recreation is rich in diverse programs and facilities dedicated to enhancing lives by
inspiring play and embracing the nature of our city.
DEPARTMENT VISION
We envision an accessible system of vibrant community parks, diverse recreation facilities, sustainable
park resources, and engaging programs that contribute to healthy individuals and families, an active and
tightly knit community, a thriving economy, and a high quality of life in the City of Elk River and region.
FURNITURE AND THINGS COMMUNITY EVENT CENTER MISSION
Provide an environment of diverse and inclusive activities with opportunities that contribute to the
wellbeing of all by listening to the needs and desires of the greater Elk River community. Respecting our
past, serving the present and preparing for tomorrow.
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FURNITURE AND THINGS COMMUNITY EVENT CENTER VISION
An inclusive and accessible facility, incorporating sustainable practices, while creating opportunities that
foster pride in our community with a commitment to quality of life.
LIFE CYCLE ANALYSIS
It is recommended that the staff track program lifecycles on an annual basis to ensure there are a
decreasing number of programs in the Saturated to Decline stage. This assessment is not based on
quantitative data but based on staff’s knowledge of their program areas. These lifecycles can, and often
do, change from year to year over time depending on how the programs fare.
The following is a list showing various lifestyle categories of the Department’s recreation programs:
Introduction state (New program; modest participation)
Take off stage (Rapid participation growth)
Growth stage (moderate, but consistent participation)
Mature stage (Moderate to Slow participation growth)
Saturation stage (Minimum to no participation growth)
Decline stage (Declining participation)
New programs (Introduction stage) need to have approval of the Parks and Recreation Director. They
need to meet the program and services determinants outlined in this Plan.
It is recommended that the recreation staff implement a quarterly program innovation audit to identify
programs that are stagnating or slowing down. The assessment may identify whether those programs
should continue in their current state, or be repositioned to further drive participation, or be cancelled.
A performance metric can be established of a program Decline stage and any program staying in that
stage for two years should be considered for repositioning or elimination in favor of new and/or growing
programs. Programs considered for cancellation must be brought to the attention of the Parks and
Recreation Director for final cancellation approval.
CORE PROGRAMS
Identifying core programs based on current and future needs and prioritizing resource allocation to meet
those needs is important for any parks and recreation agency. This assists in creating a sense of focus
around specific program areas of greatest important to the community. It does not mean that non-core
programs are not important – it simply allows the staff to establish priorities.
Programs are categorized as core programs if they meet a majority of the following categories:
• Identified by a community need
• Wide demographic appeal
• Includes opportunities for skill progression and/or development
• Requires city employees to oversee the program
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• Has strong social value
• High level of customer interface exists
• High partnering capability
• The programs support or utilize the facility
Recommended Core Programs
The core program areas highlighted on the city website include:
• Community Special Events
• Arts and Culture
• Summer Camps
• Ice Programs
• Recreational Sports Programs
• Senior Programs
RECREATION TRENDS ANALYSIS
National, regional, and local recreation trends are a vital component of overall program planning. The
Parks and Recreation Department utilized The Sports and Fitness Industry Association’s (SFIA) Sports,
Fitness & Recreational Activities Participation Report to track national and regional trends. The latest
report available for analysis (2018) is detailed in this plan in Appendix A. This is the most
comprehensive trends analysis available before the COVID-19 pandemic that started in early March.
National and regional trends should be compared to local trends. A local trends analysis compared to the
regional and national trends will make a recreation program plan a comprehensive one. This type of
trends analysis can only be accomplished through a local survey best administered by a consultant. Staff
recommends pursing a local analysis in 2022 or 2023 once we get past the pandemic and have a few years
of participation data for the (FTCEC) Furniture and Things Community Event Center. This could be part
of a department master plan process.
Another tool is the benchmark tool of park metrics offered by NRPA for the Great Lake region. When
comparing Great Lakes agencies to the US average, team sports, community special events, fitness
enhancement classes, and health and wellness education were all identified as top five most provided
program areas offered regionally and nationally. Details on this park metrics are in Appendix A.
INTEGRATING TRENDS INTO PROGRAMMING
When a community gap is identified, programmers refer to trends to understand the nature and type of
programmatic options that seem to be working across the country. These programmatic candidates can
then be analyzed in the local market context.
Based on nationwide trends two areas that continue to grow in participation are the Outdoor Adventure
programming, off road marathons and Esports. Continuing to leverage the new park amenities such as the
Nature Play Area at Woodland Trails Regional Park as a program opportunity via outdoor recreation and
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nature programming would be an added benefit. Esports potentially offered at the FTCEC is an
opportunity staff should consider. Esports trends are outlined in Appendix A.
PRIORITIZATIONS OF PARKS AND RECREATION SERVICES
The provision of facilities, programs and services is fundamental to the vision and mission of Elk River
Parks and Recreation. Since the resources available to offer programs and service is limited, the delivery
of these services is prioritized based on the following criteria:
• All Services: All programs and services must support the goals and objectives of the Parks and
Recreation Master Plan as approved or amended by City Council.
• Priority 1: Programs and service that directly contribute to the cost recovery objective of the
department (as outlined in the fees and charges policy), are high priorities of the public and for
which there is a demonstrated demand or expectation for the department to offer or are legally
mandated to be provided.
o Parks: Open Space, playgrounds, splash pads, trails, outdoor ice arenas
o Facilities: Furniture and Things Community Event Center, dog park, park shelters
o Programs: Youth Enrichment/ Summer Camps
o Community Special Events: Elk River Fest, Riverfront Concert Series, Farmers Market
o Other Services: Natural, cultural and land resource management
• Priority 2: Programs and services that are value-added or complimentary to Priority 1 Services
that build brand loyalty or directly or indirectly contribute to cost recovery expectations.
o Facilities: Park pavilions and shelters (rentable), Outdoor Ice Arena Warming Houses
o Programs: Nature
o Other Services: Concessions
• Priority 3: Program and services for which there is an unmet need within the community and the
department is well-positioned to provide that do not detract from cost recovery objectives as
outlined in the fees and charges policy.
o Programs: Creative Arts, Senior Programs, Sports
RECREATION PROGRAM PARAMETERS
In order to best serve the community, while carrying out the department’s vision of creating engaging
programs for the residents of the City of Elk River, recreation programs should also adhere to a distinct
set of parameters. These guidelines will aid the Parks and Recreation Department in maintaining
sustainability, while ensuring that all programs are more innovative/higher quality than what is currently
being offered to the community. The following four recreation program parameters are established:
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• Is considered a unique (no one else is offering) or higher quality (we do it better) program for
participants
• Due to the expected growth of the Furniture and Things Community Event Center, recreation
programs planned for the FTCEC need to meet its Special Revenue Fund objectives.
• Meet at least one of the four program determinants as described in the next section
• Not categorized as Declining for two years or two consecutive seasons on the Program Life
Cycle.
PROGRAM AND SERVICE DETERMINANTS
The Department recognizes the need to approach recreation programming in a way that emphasizes
specific individual, social, environmental, and economic benefits, rather than just focusing on the
recreation activities themselves. It is the Department’s philosophy that we design our program offerings
around the direct needs of the community and national trends. When determining the need to offer a
program, we first look to see if that need is being met by another community organization, department, or
company. The Department will only offer a program if it finds that needs are unmet in the
surrounding regional area.
1. CONCEPTUAL FOUNDATIONS OF PLAY, RECREATION AND LEISURE
Has important developmental implications for participants. Elements and characteristics
of leisure experiences contribute directly to the development of identity, autonomy,
competence, civic duty and social connections.
Programs offered by the Department have clearly stated objectives and goals, an element
of choice, and a future direction for improvement or change. Program planning elements
address physical, social, cognitive and emotional goals for participants.
2. DEPARTMENT PHILOSOPHY, MISSION AND VISION AND GOALS AND
OBJECTIVES
Clearly meets a goal as determined by the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The
programming recommended for the community is on page 16-66 of the Plan (Appendix B)
This could also be a program that is applicable to the vision and or mission statements.
3. CONSTITUENT INTERESTS AND DESIRED NEEDS
Program needed by the community. Community lacks this program, or there may be a
strong desire to participate in this program if offered.
Key tasks include reviewing previous programs plans, consideration of future population
growth and demographics. Identifying potential partnership opportunities for additional
recreation services and researching current and future trends.
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4. COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES
New opportunity that could benefit the community, based on demographic information and
current trends in Parks and Recreation.
The City of Elk River continues to be a regional hub for business opportunities north of the
Twin Cities. With continued residential growth, the department needs to ensure that is
continuing to offer adequate and evolving leisure opportunities. Other opportunities with
private businesses, local non-profit organizations and service clubs should also continue to
be sought out by way of partnerships.
The Trends Analysis provides an understanding of national, regional, and local recreational
trends. This analysis examines participation trends, activity levels, and programming trends. It is
important to note that all trends are based on current and/or historical patterns and participation
rates.
NATIONAL TRENDS IN RECREATION
METHODOLOGY
The Sports & Fitness Industry Association’s (SFIA) Sports, Fitness & Recreational Activities
Topline Participation Report 2018 was utilized in evaluating the
following trends:
• National Trends in Sport and Fitness Participation
• Core vs. Casual Participation
• Activity by Generation
The study is based on findings from surveys carried out in 2017 and the beginning of 2018 by the
Physical Activity Council, resulting in a total of 30,999 online interviews (individual and household
surveys). A sample size of 30,999 completed interviews is considered by SFIA to result in a high
degree of statistical accuracy. A sport with a participation rate of five percent has a confidence
interval of +/- 0.27 percentage points at a 95% confidence interval. Using a weighting technique,
survey results are applied to the total U.S. population figure of 298,325,103 people (ages six and
older). The purpose of the report is to establish levels of activity and identify key participatory
trends in recreation across the U.S.
CORE VS. CASUAL PARTICIPATION
In addition to overall participation rates, SFIA further categorizes active participants as either
core or casual participants based on frequency. Core participants have higher participatory
frequency than casual participants. The thresholds that define casual versus core participation
may vary based on the nature of each individual activity. For instance, core participants engage in
most fitness and recreational activities more than 50 times per year, while for sports, the
threshold for core participation is typically 13 times per year. In a given activity, core participants
are more committed and tend to be less likely to switch to other activities or become inactive
(engage in no physical activity) than causal participants. This may also explain why activities with
more core participants tend to experience less pattern shifts in participation rates than those with
larger groups of casual participants.
In recent years, the percent of core participants has decreased in nearly every sport/activity as
casual participation continues to become more common among today’s generation. This is
expected to be a result of several factors including time restraints, financial barriers, and the
introduction of new activities. All of these factors are contributing to participants trying out new
activities and casually participating in a wide variety of sports and recreation endeavors versus
the former trend of dedicating all of one’s time and finance to one (or two) activities.
Appendix A - Recreation Tends Analysis
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
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INACTIVITY RATES / ACTIVITY LEVEL TRENDS
SFIA also categorizes participation rates by intensity, dividing activity levels into five categories
based on the caloric implication (i.e., high calorie burning, low/med calorie burning, or inactive)
and the frequency of participation (i.e., 1-50 times, 50-150 times, or above) for a given activity.
Participation rates are expressed as ‘super active’ or ‘active to a healthy level’ (high calorie
burning, 151+ times), ‘active’ (high calorie burning, 50-150 times), ‘casual’ (high calorie burning,
1-50 times), ‘low/med calorie burning’, and ‘inactive’. These participation rates are then
assessed based on the total population trend over the last five years, as well as breaking down
these rates by generation.
NATIONAL SPORT AND FITNESS PARTICIPATORY TRENDS
NATIONAL TRENDS IN GENERAL SPORTS
The sport’s most heavily participated in the United States were Golf (23.8 million in 2016) and
Basketball (23.4 million), which have participation figures well in excess of the other activities
within the general sports category. The popularity of Golf and Basketball can be attributed to
the ability to compete with relatively small number of participants. Even though Golf has
experienced a recent decrease in participation, it still continues to benefit from its wide age
segment appeal and is considered a life-long sport. Basketball’s success can be attributed to the
limited amount of equipment needed to participate and the limited space requirements
necessary, which make basketball the only traditional sport that can be played at the majority of
American dwellings as a drive-way pickup game.
Since 2012, Rugby and other niche sports, like Boxing,
Lacrosse, and Roller Hockey have seen strong growth.
Rugby has emerged as the overall fastest growing sport,
as it has seen participation levels rise by 82.8% over the
last five years. Based on the five-year trend, Boxing for
Competition (42.6%), Lacrosse (35.1%), and Roller Hockey
(34.2%) have also experienced significant growth. In the
most recent year, the fastest growing sports were Boxing
for Competition (13.1%) and Pickleball (11.3%).
During the last five years, the sports that are most rapidly declining include Ultimate Frisbee (-
39.1%), Touch Football (-22.8%), Tackle Football (-16.0%), and Racquetball (-13.4%). For the most
recent year, Ultimate Frisbee (-14.9%), Badminton (-12.6%), Gymnastics (-10.7%), and Volleyball-
Sand/Beach (-9.9%) experienced the largest declines.
In general, the most recent year shares a similar pattern with the five-year trends. This suggests
that the increasing participation rates in certain activities have yet to peak in sports like Rugby,
Lacrosse, Field Hockey, and Competitive Boxing. However, some sports that increased rapidly
over the past five years have experienced recent decreases in participation, including Squash,
Ice Hockey, Roller Hockey and Volleyball-Sand/Beach. The reversal of the five-year trends in
these sports may be due to a relatively low user base (ranging from 1-5 million) and could suggest
that participation in these activities may have peaked.
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
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CORE VS. CASUAL TRENDS IN GENERAL SPORTS
The most popular sports, such as Basketball and Baseball, have a larger core participant base
(engaged 13+ times annually) than casual participant base (engaged at least 1 time annually).
Less mainstream, less organized sports such as Ultimate Frisbee, Roller Hockey, Squash, and
Boxing for Competition have larger casual participation. Although these sports increased in
participation over the last five years, the newcomers were mostly casual participants that may
be more inclined to switch to other sports or fitness activities, resulting in the declining one-
year trends.
National Participatory Trends - General Sports
Activity Participation Levels % Change
2012 2016 2017 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
Golf * (2011, 2015, and 2016 data) 25,682 24,120 23,815 -7.3% -1.3%
Basketball 23,708 22,343 23,401 -1.3% 4.7%
Tennis 17,020 18,079 17,683 3.9% -2.2%
Baseball 12,976 14,760 15,642 20.5% 6.0%
Soccer (Outdoor) 12,944 11,932 11,924 -7.9% -0.1%
Softball (Slow Pitch) 7,411 7,690 7,283 -1.7% -5.3%
Football, Flag 5,865 6,173 6,551 11.7% 6.1%
Badminton 7,278 7,354 6,430 -11.7% -12.6%
Volleyball (Court) 6,384 6,216 6,317 -1.0% 1.6%
Football, Touch 7,295 5,686 5,629 -22.8% -1.0%
Soccer (Indoor) 4,617 5,117 5,399 16.9% 5.5%
Football, Tackle 6,220 5,481 5,224 -16.0% -4.7%
Volleyball (Sand/Beach) 4,505 5,489 4,947 9.8% -9.9%
Gymnastics 5,115 5,381 4,805 -6.1% -10.7%
Track and Field 4,257 4,116 4,161 -2.3% 1.1%
Cheerleading 3,244 4,029 3,816 17.6% -5.3%
Racquetball 4,070 3,579 3,526 -13.4% -1.5%
Pickleball N/A 2,815 3,132 N/A 11.3%
Ultimate Frisbee 5,131 3,673 3,126 -39.1% -14.9%
Ice Hockey 2,363 2,697 2,544 7.7% -5.7%
Softball (Fast Pitch) 2,624 2,467 2,309 -12.0% -6.4%
Lacrosse 1,607 2,090 2,171 35.1% 3.9%
Wrestling 1,922 1,922 1,896 -1.4% -1.4%
Roller Hockey 1,367 1,929 1,834 34.2% -4.9%
Rugby 887 1,550 1,621 82.8% 4.6%
Field Hockey 1,237 1,512 1,596 29.0% 5.6%
Squash 1,290 1,549 1,492 15.7% -3.7%
Boxing for Competition 959 1,210 1,368 42.6% 13.1%
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over
Legend: Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate
Increase
(0% to 25%)
Moderate
Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
*2017 information not available for Golf. Information to be released by National Golf Foundation. Participation figures
above reflect 2011, 2015, and 2016 data.
Figure 1: General Sports Participatory Trends (SFIA)
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
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NATIONAL TRENDS IN GENERAL FITNESS
Overall, national participatory trends in fitness have
experienced strong growth in recent years. Many of these
activities have become popular due to an increased
interest among Americans to improve their health and
enhance quality of life by engaging in an active lifestyle.
These activities also have very few barriers to entry,
which provides a variety of options that are relatively
inexpensive to participate in and can be performed by
most individuals.
The most popular fitness activity, by far, is Fitness
Walking, which had about 110.8 million participants in
2017, increasing 2.7% from the previous year. Other
leading fitness activities based on total number of
participants include Treadmill (52.9 million), Free
Weights (52.2 million), Running/Jogging (50.7 million), Weight/Resistance Machines (36.2
million), and Stationary Cycling (36.0 million).
Over the last five years, the activities growing most rapidly are Non-Traditional / Off-Road
Triathlons (74.7%), Trail Running (57.6%), and Aerobics (32.7%). Over the same time frame, the
activities that have undergone the most decline include: Boot Camps Style Cross Training (-
11.3%), Stretching (-7.5%), and Weight/Resistance Machines (-6.9%).
In the last year, activities with the largest gains in participation were Triathlon Non-
Traditional/Off Road (10.1%), Running/Jogging (7.1%), and Trail Running (6.6%). From 2016-
2017, the activities that had the most decline in participation were Traditional/Road Triathlon
(-8.9%), Cardio Kickboxing (-3.0%), and Calisthenics/Bodyweight Exercise (-2.6%).
CORE VS. CASUAL TRENDS IN GENERAL FITNESS
It should be noted that many of the activities that are rapidly growing have a relatively low user
base, which allows for more drastic shifts in terms of percentage, especially for five-year trends.
Increasing casual participants may also explain the rapid growth in some activities. For instance,
core/casual participation trends showed that over the last five years, casual participants
increased drastically in Non-Traditional/ Off Road (119.6%) and Tai Chi (26.9%), while the core
participant base of both activities experienced significantly less growth.
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
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National Participatory Trends - General Fitness
Activity Participation Levels % Change
2012 2016 2017 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
Fitness Walking 114,029 107,895 110,805 -2.8% 2.7%
Treadmill 50,839 51,872 52,966 4.2% 2.1%
Free Weights (Dumbbells/Hand Weights) N/A 51,513 52,217 N/A 1.4%
Running/Jogging 51,450 47,384 50,770 -1.3% 7.1%
Weight/Resistant Machines 38,999 35,768 36,291 -6.9% 1.5%
Stationary Cycling (Recumbent/Upright) 35,987 36,118 36,035 0.1% -0.2%
Stretching 35,873 33,771 33,195 -7.5% -1.7%
Elliptical Motion Trainer* 28,560 32,218 32,283 13.0% 0.2%
Free Weights (Barbells) 26,688 26,473 27,444 2.8% 3.7%
Yoga 23,253 26,268 27,354 17.6% 4.1%
Calisthenics/Bodyweight Exercise N/A 25,110 24,454 N/A -2.6%
Choreographed Exercise N/A 21,839 22,616 N/A 3.6%
Aerobics (High Impact) 16,178 21,390 21,476 32.7% 0.4%
Stair Climbing Machine 12,979 15,079 14,948 15.2% -0.9%
Cross-Training Style Workout N/A 12,914 13,622 N/A 5.5%
Stationary Cycling (Group) 8,477 8,937 9,409 11.0% 5.3%
Trail Running 5,806 8,582 9,149 57.6% 6.6%
Pilates Training 8,519 8,893 9,047 6.2% 1.7%
Cardio Kickboxing 6,725 6,899 6,693 -0.5% -3.0%
Boot Camp Style Cross-Training 7,496 6,583 6,651 -11.3% 1.0%
Martial Arts 5,075 5,745 5,838 15.0% 1.6%
Boxing for Fitness 4,831 5,175 5,157 6.7% -0.3%
Tai Chi 3,203 3,706 3,787 18.2% 2.2%
Barre N/A 3,329 3,436 N/A 3.2%
Triathlon (Traditional/Road) 1,789 2,374 2,162 20.8% -8.9%
Triathlon (Non-Traditional/Off Road) 1,075 1,705 1,878 74.7% 10.1%
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over
Legend: Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate
Increase
(0% to 25%)
Moderate
Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
*Cardio Cross Trainer is merged to Elliptical Motion Trainer
Figure 2: General Fitness National Participatory Trends (SFIA)
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
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NATIONAL TRENDS IN OUTDOOR RECREATION
Results from the SFIA report demonstrate a contrast of growth and decline in participation
regarding outdoor / adventure recreation activities. Much like the general fitness activities,
these activities encourage an active lifestyle, can be performed individually or within a group,
and are not as limited by time constraints.
In 2017, the most popular activities, in terms of total participants, from the outdoor / adventure
recreation category include: Day Hiking (44.9 million), Road Bicycling (38.8 million), Freshwater
Fishing (38.3 million), and Camping within ¼ mile of Vehicle/Home (26.2 million).
From 2012-2017, BMX Bicycling (83.4%), Adventure Racing (56.3%), Backpacking Overnight
(38.3%), and Day Hiking (30.1%) have undergone the largest increases in participation. Similarly, in
the last year, activities growing most rapidly include: BMX Bicycling (10.0%), Backpacking
Overnight (8.1%), and Day Hiking (6.6%).
The five-year trend shows activities declining most rapidly were In-Line Roller Skating (-20.7%),
Camping within ¼ mile of Home/Vehicle (-16.5%), and Birdwatching (-9.2%). More recently,
activities experiencing the largest declines were Adventure Racing (-15.7%), Traditional Climbing
(-9.4%), and In-Line Roller Skating (-2.1%).
CORE VS. CASUAL TRENDS IN OUTDOOR RECREATION
National participation trends for outdoor activities is on the
rise; however, In-Line Roller Skating and Freshwater Fishing
only experienced increases in casual participation over the
last five years. Any decline in participation over the last
five years was mainly ascribed to decreases in core
participants for activities such as In-Line Roller Skating
(-32.6%), Road Bicycling(-10.4%), Camping Recreational
Vehicle (-10.0%), and Archery (-3.2%).
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
7
National Participatory Trends - Outdoor / Adventure Recreation
Activity Participation Levels % Change
2012 2016 2017 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
Hiking (Day) 34,519 42,128 44,900 30.1% 6.6%
Bicycling (Road) 39,790 38,365 38,866 -2.3% 1.3%
Fishing (Freshwater) 39,002 38,121 38,346 -1.7% 0.6%
Camping (< 1/4 Mile of Vehicle/Home) 31,454 26,467 26,262 -16.5% -0.8%
Camping (Recreational Vehicle) 15,903 15,855 16,159 1.6% 1.9%
Fishing (Saltwater) 12,000 12,266 13,062 8.9% 6.5%
Birdwatching (>1/4 mile of Vehicle/Home) 13,535 11,589 12,296 -9.2% 6.1%
Backpacking Overnight 7,933 10,151 10,975 38.3% 8.1%
Bicycling (Mountain) 7,265 8,615 8,609 18.5% -0.1%
Archery 7,173 7,903 7,769 8.3% -1.7%
Fishing (Fly) 5,848 6,456 6,791 16.1% 5.2%
Skateboarding 6,227 6,442 6,382 2.5% -0.9%
Roller Skating, In-Line 6,647 5,381 5,268 -20.7% -2.1%
Bicycling (BMX) 1,861 3,104 3,413 83.4% 10.0%
Adventure Racing 1,618 2,999 2,529 56.3% -15.7%
Climbing (Traditional/Ice/Mountaineering) 2,189 2,790 2,527 15.4% -9.4%
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over
Legend: Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate
Increase
(0% to 25%)
Moderate
Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
Figure 3: Outdoor / Adventure Recreation Participatory Trends (SFIA)
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
8
NATIONAL TRENDS IN WATER SPORTS / ACTIVITIES
The most popular water sports / activities based on total participants in 2017 were Recreational
Kayaking (10.5 million), Canoeing (9.2 million), and Snorkeling (8.3 million). It should be noted
that water activity participation tends to vary based on regional, seasonal, and environmental
factors. A region with more water access and a warmer climate is more likely to have a higher
participation rate in water activities than a region that has long winter seasons or limited water
access. Therefore, when assessing trends in water sports and activities, it is important to
understand that fluctuations may be the result of environmental barriers which can greatly
influence water activity participation.
Over the last five years, Stand-Up Paddling (138.9%) was by far the fastest growing water activity,
followed by White Water Kayaking (33.1%), Recreational Kayaking (28.7%), and Sea/Tour Kayaking
(20.8%). Although the five-year trends show water sport activities are getting more popular, the
most recent year shows a different trend. From 2016-2017 Stand-Up Paddling Recreational
Kayaking reflect much slower increases in participation (3.3% and 5.2%), while White Water
Kayaking (-2.0%), Sea/Tour Kayaking (-5.4%) both show decreases in participation numbers.
From 2012-2017, activities declining most rapidly were Jet Skiing (-22.6%), Water Skiing (- 19.4%),
and Wakeboarding (-10.8%). In the most recent year, activities experiencing the greatest declines
in participation included: Boardsailing/Windsurfing (-9.4%), Canoeing (-8.2%), and Scuba Diving (-
7.6%).
National Participatory Trends - Water Sports / Activities
Activity Participation Levels % Change
2012 2016 2017 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
Kayaking (Recreational) 8,187 10,017 10,533 28.7% 5.2%
Canoeing 9,813 10,046 9,220 -6.0% -8.2%
Snorkeling 8,664 8,717 8,384 -3.2% -3.8%
Jet Skiing 6,996 5,783 5,418 -22.6% -6.3%
Sailing 3,841 4,095 3,974 3.5% -3.0%
Water Skiing 4,434 3,700 3,572 -19.4% -3.5%
Rafting 3,756 3,428 3,479 -7.4% 1.5%
Stand-Up Paddling 1,392 3,220 3,325 138.9% 3.3%
Wakeboarding 3,368 2,912 3,005 -10.8% 3.2%
Kayaking (Sea/Touring) 2,446 3,124 2,955 20.8% -5.4%
Scuba Diving 2,781 3,111 2,874 3.3% -7.6%
Surfing 2,545 2,793 2,680 5.3% -4.0%
Kayaking (White Water) 1,878 2,552 2,500 33.1% -2.0%
Boardsailing/Windsurfing 1,372 1,737 1,573 14.7% -9.4%
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over
Legend: Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate
Increase
(0% to 25%)
Moderate
Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
Figure 4: Water Sports / Activities Participatory Trends (SFIA)
CORE VS. CASUAL TRENDS IN WATER SPORTS / ACTIVITIES
As mentioned previously, regional, seasonal, and environmental limiting factors may influence
the participation rate of water sport and activities. These factors may also explain why all water-
based activities have more casual participants than core participants, since frequencies of
activities may be constrained by uncontrollable factors.
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
9
ACTIVITY BY GENERATION
Analyzing participation by age for recreational activities reveals that fitness and outdoor sports
were the most common activities across all generations. Breaking down activity level by
generation shows a converse correlation between age and healthy activity rates.
Generation Z (born 2000+) were the most active, with only 17.6% identifying as inactive.
Approximately 65% of individuals within this generation where active in 2017; with 26.3% being
active to a healthy level, 18.5% being active & high calorie, and 20.1% being casual active &
low/med calorie.
Almost half (46.7%) of millennials (born 1980-1999) were active to a healthy level (35.4%) or
active & high calorie (11.3%), while 24.0% claimed they were inactive. Even though this inactive
rate is much higher than Generation Z’s (17.6%), it is still below the national inactive rate.
Generation X (born 1965-1979) has the second highest active to a healthy level rate (35.0%)
among all generations, only being 0.4% less than Millennials. At the same time, they also have
the second highest inactive rate, with 28.1% not active at all.
The Boomers (born 1945-1964) were the least active generation, with an inactive rate of 33.3%.
This age group tends to participate in less intensive activities. Approximately 34% claimed to
engage in casual & low/med calorie (4.3%) or low/med calorie (29.6%) burning
activities.
2017 PARTICIPATION RATES BY GENERATION
US population, Ages 6+
Active to a Healthy Level Active & High Calorie Casual & Low/Med Calorie Low/Med Calorie
Inactive
*Times
per
year:
Casual
(1-50),
Active
(51-150),
Active
to
Healthy
Level
(151+)
Figure 5: 2017 Participation Rates by Generation (SFIA)
Generation Z (2000+) Millennials (1980-1999)
17.6%
26.3%
24.0%
35.4%
17.4%
18.5%
16.4%
20.1% 11.3%
13.0%
Generation X (1965-1979) The Boomers (1945-1964)
28.1%
26.5%
35.0% 33.3%
6.3%
4.3%
18.7% 9.1%
9.1% 29.6%
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
10
NATIONAL AND REGIONAL PROGRAMMING TRENDS
PROGRAMS OFFERED BY PARK AND RECREATION AGENCIES (GREAT LAKES REGION)
NRPA’s Agency Performance Review 2018 summarize key findings from NRPA Park Metrics, which
is a benchmark tool that compares
the management and planning of
operating resources and capital
facilities of park and recreation
agencies. The report contains data
from 1,069 park and recreation
agencies across the U.S. as reported
between 2015 and 2017.
The report shows that the typical
agencies (i.e., those at the median
values) offer 161 programs annually,
with roughly 60% of those programs
being fee-based activities/events.
According to the information reported to the NRPA, the top five programming activities most
frequently offered by park and recreation agencies, both in the U.S. and regionally, are described
in Figure 6. A complete comparison of regional and national programs offered by agencies can
be found in Figure 7.
When comparing Great Lakes agencies to the U.S. average, team sports, themed special events,
fitness enhancement classes, and health and wellness education were all identified as top five
most commonly provided program areas offered regionally and nationally.
Top 5 Most Offered Program Area and Category
(Offered by Parks and Recreation Agencies)
U.S. (% of agencies offering) Great Lakes Region (% of agencies
offering)
• Team sports (86%) • Themed special events (84%)
• Themed special events (84%) • Team sports (81%)
• Social recreation events (81%) • Social recreation events (81%)
• Fitness enhancement classes
(78%)
• Health and wellness education
(78%)
• Health and wellness education
(78%)
• Fitness enhancement classes
76%
Figure 6: Top 5 Program Areas and Categories (NRPA)
Great Lakes
Region
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
11
In general, Great Lakes park and recreation agencies offered programs at a very similar rate as
the national average. However, based on a discrepancy threshold of 5% or more, Great Lakes
agencies are offering natural and cultural history activities at a higher rate than the national
average. Contradictory, the Great Lakes Region is trailing the national average in regards to team
sports.
Figure 7: Programs Offered by Parks and Recreation Agency (NRPA)
U.S. Great Lakes
Team sports
Themed special events
86% 81%
84% 84%
Social recreation events 81% 81%
Fitness enhancement classes 78% 76%
Health and wellness education 78% 78%
Safety training
Aquatics
70% 71%
69% 69%
Individual sports 68% 65%
Trips and tours 64% 65%
Racquet sports
Martial arts
Performing arts
Cultural crafts
62% 58%
61% 57%
61% 65%
58% 58%
Visual arts 56% 57%
Natural and cultural history activities 53% 59%
Golf 47% 51%
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
12
TARGETED PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN, SENIORS, AND PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
For better understanding of targeted programs by age segment, the NRPA also tracks program
offerings that cater specifically to children, seniors, and people with disabilities, on a national
and regional basis. This allows for further analysis of these commonly targeted populations.
According to the 2018 NRPA Agency Performance Review, approximately 79% of agencies offer
dedicated senior programming, while 62% of park and recreation agencies provide adaptive
programming for individuals with disabilities.
Based on information reported to the NRPA, the top three activities that target children, seniors,
and/or people with disabilities most frequently offered by park and recreation agencies are
described in Figure 8. A complete comparison of regional and national programs offered by
agencies can be found in Figure 9.
Top 3 Most Offered Program Area and Category
(Targeting Children, Seniors, and/or People with Disabilities)
U.S. (% of agencies offering) Great Lakes Region (% of agencies
offering)
• Summer camp (84%) • Summer camp (84%)
• Senior programs (79%) • Senior programs 79%)
• Teen programs (63%) • Teen programs (63%)
Figure 8: Top 3 Core Target Program Areas (NRPA)
Agencies in the Great Lakes tend to offer targeted programs at an almost identical rate as
the national average. The only significant discrepancy is when it comes to preschool and
before school program, which the Great Lakes Region offers at a higher rate than the
national average.
Figure 9: Targeted Programs for Children, Seniors, and People with Disabilities (NRPA)
Core Program Areas Targeting Children, Seniors, and/or People with Disabilities
(Percent of Agencies)
84%
84%
79%
79%
63%
63%
62%
61%
55%
52%
36%
45%
21%
30%
8%
9%
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
13
E SPORTS TRENDS
Esports (electronic sports) according to National Recreation and Park Association (January 2021-
Parks and Recreation Magazine) is the fastest-growing sport genre nationally and globally.
eGaming is a generic term to describe amusement or recreation using a standalone video game,
desktop computer or the internet with one of more players, while esports comprises organized,
multiplayer gaming events played in a competitive environment, often by professional gamers.
What’s more, spectators watch esports in person or via online channels, such as YouTube and
Twitch.
Esports have grown in popularity in 2020 as the COVID pandemic has curtailed youth team sports
activities. According to accredited Gold Medal parks and recreation agencies (Westerville, OH,
South Suburban Parks and Recreation – Denver and Excelsior Springs Missouri where Esports rooms
have been built) the pandemic has proven eSports really belongs in parks and recreation. With
traditional field and indoor sports suspended, teens have few recreational outlets and eSports
address an important need for youth. The inclusion accessibility aspect of esports is an important
benefit for youth.
In 2019, global annual esports revenues crossed $1 billion — a steep rise from $130 million just
seven years ago, according to Newzoo: Esports Insider. A report from Goldman Sachs, titled
“Esports: From Wild West to Mainstream,” projects total esports monetization will reach $3
billion by 2022. To put that in perspective, the NBA’s 30 teams combined generated $7.4 billion
in 2017. Recognizing the potential of this genre, that same year, the NBA, in a joint venture with
Take-Two Interactive, introduced its own esports league, titled NBA 2K League, and the Wall
Street Journal estimates this sponsorship to be valued at $1.1 billion over seven years.
Along with that, Newzoo’s 2018 Global ESports Market Report projects an estimated audience of
more than 550 million viewers by 2021, which translates into a 200 percent growth in viewership
in merely five years since 2016.
According to Newzoo January 22, 2021 trends report, Esports will continue to grow in 2021 during
the pandemic and traditional sports will increasingly look to Esports efforts, especially as they
stay consistent or decrease in participation rates.
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
14
GENERAL SPORTS
National Core vs Casual Participatory Trends - General Sports
Activity Participation Levels % Change
2012 2016 2017 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
# % # % # %
Golf * (2011, 2015 and 2016 data) 25,682 100% 24,120 100% 23,815 100% -7.3% -1.3%
Basketball 23,708 100% 22,343 100% 23,401 100% -1.3% 4.7%
Casual (1-12 times) 7,389 31% 7,486 34% 8,546 37% 15.7% 14.2%
Core (13+ times) 16,319 69% 14,857 66% 14,856 63% -9.0% 0.0%
Tennis 17,020 100% 18,079 100% 17,683 100% 3.9% -2.2%
Baseball 12,976 100% 14,760 100% 15,642 100% 20.5% 6.0%
Casual (1-12 times) 3,931 30% 5,673 38% 6,405 41% 62.9% 12.9%
Core (13+ times) 9,046 70% 9,087 62% 9,238 59% 2.1% 1.7%
Soccer (Outdoor) 12,944 100% 11,932 100% 11,924 100% -7.9% -0.1%
Casual (1-25 times) 6,740 52% 6,342 53% 6,665 56% -1.1% 5.1%
Core (26+ times) 6,205 48% 5,590 47% 5,259 44% -15.2% -5.9%
Softball (Slow Pitch) 7,411 100% 7,690 100% 7,283 100% -1.7% -5.3%
Casual (1-12 times) 2,825 38% 3,377 44% 3,060 42% 8.3% -9.4%
Core (13+ times) 4,586 62% 4,314 56% 4,223 58% -7.9% -2.1%
Badminton 7,278 100% 7,354 100% 6,430 100% -11.7% -12.6%
Casual (1-12 times) 5,092 70% 5,285 72% 4,564 71% -10.4% -13.6%
Core (13+ times) 2,185 30% 2,069 28% 1,867 29% -14.6% -9.8%
Volleyball (Court) 6,384 100% 6,216 100% 6,317 100% -1.0% 1.6%
Casual (1-12 times) 2,553 40% 2,852 46% 2,939 47% 15.1% 3.1%
Core (13+ times) 3,831 60% 3,364 54% 3,378 53% -11.8% 0.4%
Football, Flag 5,865 100% 6,173 100% 6,551 100% 11.7% 6.1%
Casual (1-12 times) 2,963 51% 3,249 53% 3,572 55% 20.6% 9.9%
Core (13+ times) 2,902 49% 2,924 47% 2,979 45% 2.7% 1.9%
Football, Touch 7,295 100% 5,686 100% 5,629 100% -22.8% -1.0%
Casual (1-12 times) 4,015 55% 3,304 58% 3,332 59% -17.0% 0.8%
Core (13+ times) 3,280 45% 2,386 42% 2,297 41% -30.0% -3.7%
Volleyball (Sand/Beach) 4,505 100% 5,489 100% 4,947 100% 9.8% -9.9%
Casual (1-12 times) 3,040 67% 3,989 73% 3,544 72% 16.6% -11.2%
Core (13+ times) 1,465 33% 1,500 27% 1,403 28% -4.2% -6.5%
Football, Tackle 6,220 100% 5,481 100% 5,224 100% -16.0% -4.7%
Casual (1-25 times) 2,566 41% 2,242 41% 2,145 41% -16.4% -4.3%
Core (26+ times) 3,655 59% 3,240 59% 3,078 59% -15.8% -5.0%
Gymnastics 5,115 100% 5,381 100% 4,805 100% -6.1% -10.7%
Casual (1-49 times) 3,252 64% 3,580 67% 3,139 65% -3.5% -12.3%
Core (50+ times) 1,863 36% 1,800 33% 1,666 35% -10.6% -7.4%
Soccer (Indoor) 4,617 100% 5,117 100% 5,399 100% 16.9% 5.5%
Casual (1-12 times) 2,006 43% 2,347 46% 2,657 49% 32.5% 13.2%
Core (13+ times) 2,611 57% 2,770 54% 2,742 51% 5.0% -1.0%
Track and Field 4,257 100% 4,116 100% 4,161 100% -2.3% 1.1%
Casual (1-25 times) 1,820 43% 1,961 48% 2,040 49% 12.1% 4.0%
Core (26+ times) 2,437 57% 2,155 52% 2,121 51% -13.0% -1.6%
Participation Growth/Decline Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate Increase (0%
to 25%)
Moderate Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
Core vs Casual Distribution Mostly Co re Participants
(greater than 75%)
M o re Co re Participants (56-
74%)
Evenly Divided (45-55% Co re
and Casual)
More Casual Participants
(56-74%)
Mostly Casual Participants
(greater than 75%)
*Golf participation figures are from 2015
Figure 10: Core vs. Casual Participation Trends by General Sport Activity (SFIA) Part I
CORE VS. CASUAL PARTICIPATION TRENDS
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
15
National Core vs Casual Participatory Trends - General Sports
Activity Participation Levels % Change
2012 2016 2017 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
# % # % # %
Cheerleading 3,244 100% 4,029 100% 3,816 100% 17.6% -5.3%
Casual (1-25 times) 1,514 47% 2,365 59% 2,164 57% 42.9% -8.5%
Core (26+ times) 1,730 53% 1,664 41% 1,653 43% -4.5% -0.7%
Ultimate Frisbee 5,131 100% 3,673 100% 3,126 100% -39.1% -14.9%
Casual (1-12 times) 3,647 71% 2,746 75% 2,270 73% -37.8% -17.3%
Core (13+ times) 1,484 29% 927 25% 856 27% -42.3% -7.7%
Racquetball 4,070 100% 3,579 100% 3,526 100% -13.4% -1.5%
Casual (1-12 times) 2,572 63% 2,488 70% 2,451 70% -4.7% -1.5%
Core (13+ times) 1,498 37% 1,092 30% 1,075 30% -28.2% -1.6%
Pickleball N/A N/A 2,815 100% 3,132 100% N/A 11.3%
Ice Hockey 2,363 100% 2,697 100% 2,544 100% 7.7% -5.7%
Casual (1-12 times) 1,082 46% 1,353 50% 1,227 48% 13.4% -9.3%
Core (13+ times) 1,281 54% 1,344 50% 1,317 52% 2.8% -2.0%
Softball (Fast Pitch) 2,624 100% 2,467 100% 2,309 100% -12.0% -6.4%
Casual (1-25 times) 1,245 47% 1,198 49% 1,077 47% -13.5% -10.1%
Core (26+ times) 1,379 53% 1,269 51% 1,232 53% -10.7% -2.9%
Lacrosse 1,607 100% 2,090 100% 2,171 100% 35.1% 3.9%
Casual (1-12 times) 788 49% 1,153 55% 1,142 53% 44.9% -1.0%
Core (13+ times) 819 51% 938 45% 1,030 47% 25.8% 9.8%
Roller Hockey 1,367 100% 1,929 100% 1,834 100% 34.2% -4.9%
Casual (1-12 times) 875 64% 1,438 75% 1,419 77% 62.2% -1.3%
Core (13+ times) 493 36% 491 25% 415 23% -15.8% -15.5%
Wrestling 1,922 100% 1,922 100% 1,896 100% -1.4% -1.4%
Casual (1-25 times) 965 50% 1,139 59% 1,179 62% 22.2% 3.5%
Core (26+ times) 957 50% 782 41% 717 38% -25.1% -8.3%
Rugby 887 100% 1,550 100% 1,621 100% 82.8% 4.6%
Casual (1-7 times) 526 59% 1,090 70% 1,097 68% 108.6% 0.6%
Core (8+ times) 361 41% 460 30% 524 32% 45.2% 13.9%
Squash 1,290 100% 1,549 100% 1,492 100% 15.7% -3.7%
Casual (1-7 times) 928 72% 1,111 72% 1,044 70% 12.5% -6.0%
Core (8+ times) 361 28% 437 28% 447 30% 23.8% 2.3%
Field Hockey 1,237 100% 1,512 100% 1,596 100% 29.0% 5.6%
Casual (1-7 times) 578 47% 773 51% 897 56% 55.2% 16.0%
Core (8+ times) 659 53% 739 49% 700 44% 6.2% -5.3%
Boxing for Competition 959 100% 1,210 100% 1,368 100% 42.6% 13.1%
Casual (1-12 times) 769 80% 1,035 86% 1,168 85% 51.9% 12.9%
Core (13+ times) 190 20% 176 14% 199 15% 4.7% 13.1%
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over
Participation Growth/Decline Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate Increase (0%
to 25%)
Moderate Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
Core vs Casual Distribution Mostly Core Participants
(greater than 75%)
Mo re Co re Participants (56-
74%)
Evenly Divided (45-55% Co re
and Casual)
More Casual Participants
(56-74%)
Mostly Casual Participants
(greater than 75%)
Figure 11: Core vs. Casual Participation Trends by General Sport Activity (SFIA) Part II
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
16
GENERAL FITNESS
National Core vs Casual Participatory Trends - General Fitness
Activity
Participation Levels % Change
2012 2016 2017 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
# % # % # % Fitness Walking 114,029 100% 107,895 100% 110,805 100% -2.8% 2.7%
Casual (1-49 times) 35,267 31% 34,535 32% 35,326 32% 0.2% 2.3%
Core (50+ times) 78,762 69% 73,359 68% 75,479 68% -4.2% 2.9%
Treadmill 50,839 100% 51,872 100% 52,966 100% 4.2% 2.1%
Casual (1-49 times) 22,248 44% 23,490 45% 24,444 46% 9.9% 4.1%
Core (50+ times) 28,591 56% 28,381 55% 28,523 54% -0.2% 0.5%
Free Weights (Dumbbells/Hand Weights) N/A 100% 51,513 100% 52,217 100% N/A 1.4%
Casual (1-49 times) N/A 18,245 35% 18,866 36% N/A 3.4%
Core (50+ times) N/A 33,268 65% 33,351 64% N/A 0.2%
Running/Jogging 51,450 100% 47,384 100% 50,770 100% -1.3% 7.1%
Casual (1-49 times) 21,973 43% 21,764 46% 24,004 47% 9.2% 10.3%
Core (50+ times) 29,478 57% 25,621 54% 26,766 53% -9.2% 4.5%
Stationary Cycling (Recumbent/Upright) 35,987 100% 36,118 100% 36,035 100% 0.1% -0.2%
Casual (1-49 times) 18,265 51% 18,240 51% 18,447 51% 1.0% 1.1%
Core (50+ times) 17,722 49% 17,878 49% 17,588 49% -0.8% -1.6%
Weight/Resistant Machines 38,999 100% 35,768 100% 36,291 100% -6.9% 1.5%
Casual (1-49 times) 15,383 39% 14,346 40% 14,496 40% -5.8% 1.0%
Core (50+ times) 23,617 61% 21,422 60% 21,795 60% -7.7% 1.7%
Stretching 35,873 100% 33,771 100% 33,195 100% -7.5% -1.7%
Casual (1-49 times) 8,996 25% 9,793 29% 10,095 30% 12.2% 3.1%
Core (50+ times) 26,877 75% 23,978 71% 23,100 70% -14.1% -3.7%
Elliptical Motion Trainer* 28,560 100% 32,218 100% 32,283 100% 13.0% 0.2%
Casual (1-49 times) 13,638 48% 15,687 49% 15,854 49% 16.2% 1.1%
Core (50+ times) 14,922 52% 16,532 51% 16,430 51% 10.1% -0.6%
Free Weights (Barbells) 26,688 100% 26,473 100% 27,444 100% 2.8% 3.7%
Casual (1-49 times) 9,435 35% 10,344 39% 10,868 40% 15.2% 5.1%
Core (50+ times) 17,253 65% 16,129 61% 16,576 60% -3.9% 2.8%
Yoga 23,253 100% 26,268 100% 27,354 100% 17.6% 4.1%
Casual (1-49 times) 13,305 57% 15,486 59% 16,454 60% 23.7% 6.3%
Core (50+ times) 9,949 43% 10,782 41% 10,900 40% 9.6% 1.1%
Calisthenics/Bodyweight Exercise N/A 100% 25,110 100% 24,454 100% N/A -2.6%
Casual (1-49 times) N/A 0 9,763 39% 10,095 41% N/A 3.4%
Core (50+ times) N/A 0 15,347 61% 14,359 59% N/A -6.4%
Choreographed Exercise N/A 100% 21,839 100% 22,616 100% N/A 3.6%
Casual (1-49 times) N/A 0 14,158 65% 14,867 66% N/A 5.0%
Core (50+ times) N/A 0 7,681 35% 7,748 34% N/A 0.9%
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over
Participation Growth/Decline Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate Increase (0%
to 25%)
Moderate Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
Core vs Casual Distribution Mostly Core Participants
(greater than 75%)
More Core Participants (56-
74%)
Evenly Divided (45-55% Co re
and Casual)
More Casual Participants
(56-74%)
Mostly Casual Participants
(greater than 75%)
*Cardio Cross Trainer is merged to Elliptical Motion Trainer
Figure 12: Core vs. Casual Participation Trends by Fitness Activity (SFIA) Part I
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
17
National Core vs Casual Participatory Trends - General Fitness
Activity
Participation Levels % Change
2012 2016 2017 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
# % # % # % Aerobics (High Impact) 16,178 100% 21,390 100% 21,476 100% 32.7% 0.4%
Casual (1-49 times) 7,819 48% 11,801 55% 12,105 56% 54.8% 2.6%
Core (50+ times) 8,359 52% 9,589 45% 9,370 44% 12.1% -2.3%
Stair Climbing Machine 12,979 100% 15,079 100% 14,948 100% 15.2% -0.9%
Casual (1-49 times) 7,303 56% 9,332 62% 9,501 64% 30.1% 1.8%
Core (50+ times) 5,676 44% 5,747 38% 5,447 36% -4.0% -5.2%
Cross-Training Style Workout N/A 100% 12,914 100% 13,622 100% N/A 5.5%
Casual (1-49 times) N/A N/A 6,430 50% 6,890 51% N/A 7.2%
Core (50+ times) N/A N/A 6,483 50% 6,732 49% N/A 3.8%
Stationary Cycling (Group) 8,477 100% 8,937 100% 9,409 100% 11.0% 5.3%
Casual (1-49 times) 5,053 60% 5,751 64% 6,023 64% 19.2% 4.7%
Core (50+ times) 3,424 40% 3,186 36% 3,386 36% -1.1% 6.3%
Pilates Training 8,519 100% 8,893 100% 9,047 100% 6.2% 1.7%
Casual (1-49 times) 5,212 61% 5,525 62% 5,698 63% 9.3% 3.1%
Core (50+ times) 3,307 39% 3,367 38% 3,348 37% 1.2% -0.6%
Trail Running 5,806 100% 8,582 100% 9,149 100% 57.6% 6.6%
Cardio Kickboxing 6,725 100% 6,899 100% 6,693 100% -0.5% -3.0%
Casual (1-49 times) 4,455 66% 4,760 69% 4,671 70% 4.8% -1.9%
Core (50+ times) 2,271 34% 2,139 31% 2,022 30% -11.0% -5.5%
Boot Camp Style Training 7,496 100% 6,583 100% 6,651 100% -11.3% 1.0%
Casual (1-49 times) 4,787 64% 4,484 68% 4,637 70% -3.1% 3.4%
Core (50+ times) 2,709 36% 2,099 32% 2,014 30% -25.7% -4.0%
Martial Arts 5,075 100% 5,745 100% 5,838 100% 15.0% 1.6%
Casual (1-12 times) 1,207 24% 1,964 34% 2,021 35% 67.4% 2.9%
Core (13+ times) 3,869 76% 3,780 66% 3,816 65% -1.4% 1.0%
Boxing for Fitness 4,831 100% 5,175 100% 5,157 100% 6.7% -0.3%
Casual (1-12 times) 2,075 43% 2,678 52% 2,738 53% 32.0% 2.2%
Core (13+ times) 2,756 57% 2,496 48% 2,419 47% -12.2% -3.1%
Tai Chi 3,203 100% 3,706 100% 3,787 100% 18.2% 2.2%
Casual (1-49 times) 1,835 57% 2,245 61% 2,329 61% 26.9% 3.7%
Core (50+ times) 1,369 43% 1,461 39% 1,458 39% 6.5% -0.2%
Barre N/A N/A 3,329 100% 3,436 100% N/A 3.2%
Casual (1-49 times) N/A N/A 2,636 79% 2,701 79% N/A 2.5%
Core (50+ times) N/A N/A 693 21% 735 21% N/A 6.1%
Triathlon (Traditional/Road) 1,789 100% 2,374 100% 2,162 100% 20.8% -8.9%
Casual (1 times) 616 34% 786 33% 754 35% 22.4% -4.1%
Core (2+ times) 1,173 66% 1,589 67% 1,408 65% 20.0% -11.4%
Triathlon (Non-Traditional/Off Road) 1,075 100% 1,705 100% 1,878 100% 74.7% 10.1%
Casual (1 times) 341 32% 647 38% 749 40% 119.6% 15.8%
Core (2+ times) 734 68% 1,058 62% 1,129 60% 53.8% 6.7%
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over
Participation Growth/Decline Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate Increase (0%
to 25%)
Moderate Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
Core vs Casual Distribution Mostly Core Participants
(greater than 75%)
More Core Participants (56-
74%)
Evenly Divided (45-55% Co re
and Casual)
More Casual Participants
(56-74%)
Mostly Casual Participants
(greater than 75%)
Figure 13: Core vs. Casual Participation Trends by Fitness Activity (SFIA) Part II
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
18
OUTDOOR/ADVENTURE RECREATION
National Core vs Casual Participatory Trends - Outdoor / Adventure Recreation
Activity
Participation Levels % Change
2012 2016 2017 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
# % # % # % Hiking (Day) 34,519 100% 42,128 100% 44,900 100% 30.1% 6.6%
Bicycling (Road) 39,790 100% 38,365 100% 38,866 100% -2.3% 1.3%
Casual (1-25 times) 18,966 48% 19,244 50% 20,212 52% 6.6% 5.0%
Core (26+ times) 20,824 52% 19,121 50% 18,654 48% -10.4% -2.4%
Fishing (Freshwater) 39,002 100% 38,121 100% 38,346 100% -1.7% 0.6%
Casual (1-7 times) 20,341 52% 20,308 53% 19,977 52% -1.8% -1.6%
Core (8+ times) 18,660 48% 17,813 47% 18,369 48% -1.6% 3.1%
Camping (< 1/4 Mile of Vehicle/Home) 31,454 100% 26,467 100% 26,262 100% -16.5% -0.8%
Camping (Recreational Vehicle) 15,903 100% 15,855 100% 16,159 100% 1.6% 1.9%
Casual (1-7 times) 8,316 52% 8,719 55% 9,332 58% 12.2% 7.0%
Core (8+ times) 7,587 48% 7,136 45% 6,826 42% -10.0% -4.3%
Fishing (Saltwater) 12,000 100% 12,266 100% 13,062 100% 8.9% 6.5%
Casual (1-7 times) 7,251 60% 7,198 59% 7,625 58% 5.2% 5.9%
Core (8+ times) 4,749 40% 5,068 41% 5,437 42% 14.5% 7.3%
Birdwatching (>1/4 mile of Vehicle/Home) 13,535 100% 11,589 100% 12,296 100% -9.2% 6.1%
Backpacking Overnight 7,933 100% 10,151 100% 10,975 100% 38.3% 8.1%
Bicycling (Mountain) 7,265 100% 8,615 100% 8,609 100% 18.5% -0.1%
Casual (1-12 times) 3,270 45% 4,273 50% 4,389 51% 34.2% 2.7%
Core (13+ times) 3,995 55% 4,342 50% 4,220 49% 5.6% -2.8%
Archery 7,173 100% 7,903 100% 7,769 100% 8.3% -1.7%
Casual (1-25 times) 5,967 83% 6,650 84% 6,602 85% 10.6% -0.7%
Core (26+ times) 1,205 17% 1,253 16% 1,167 15% -3.2% -6.9%
Fishing (Fly) 5,848 100% 6,456 100% 6,791 100% 16.1% 5.2%
Casual (1-7 times) 3,598 62% 4,183 65% 4,448 65% 23.6% 6.3%
Core (8+ times) 2,250 38% 2,273 35% 2,344 35% 4.2% 3.1%
Skateboarding 6,227 100% 6,442 100% 6,382 100% 2.5% 1.3%
Casual (1-25 times) 3,527 57% 3,955 61% 3,970 62% 12.6% 0.4%
Core (26+ times) 2,700 43% 2,487 39% 2,411 38% -10.7% -3.1%
Roller Skating (In-Line) 6,647 100% 5,381 100% 5,268 100% -20.7% -2.1%
Casual (1-12 times) 4,548 68% 3,861 72% 3,853 73% -15.3% -0.2%
Core (13+ times) 2,100 32% 1,520 28% 1,415 27% -32.6% -6.9%
Bicycling (BMX) 1,861 100% 3,104 100% 3,413 100% 83.4% 10.0%
Casual (1-12 times) 856 46% 1,760 57% 2,039 60% 138.2% 15.9%
Core (13+ times) 1,005 54% 1,344 43% 1,374 40% 36.7% 2.2%
Adventure Racing 1,618 100% 2,999 100% 2,529 100% 56.3% -15.7%
Casual (1 times) 672 42% 1,081 36% 899 36% 33.8% -16.8%
Core (2+ times) 945 58% 1,918 64% 1,630 64% 72.5% -15.0%
Climbing (Traditional/Ice/Mountaineering) 2,189 100% 2,790 100% 2,527 100% 15.4% -9.4%
1.6%TE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over
Participation Growth/Decline Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate Increase (0%
to 25%)
Moderate Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
Core vs Casual Distribution Mostly Core Participants
(greater than 75%)
M o re Core Participants (56-
74%)
Evenly Divided (45-55% Co re
and Casual)
More Casual Participants
(56-74%)
Mostly Casual Participants
(greater than 75%)
Figure 14: Core vs. Casual Participation Trends by Outdoor Recreation Activity (SFIA)
Appendix A – Recreation Trends Analysis
19
WATER SPORTS/ACTIVITIES
National Core vs Casual Participatory Trends - Water Sports / Activities
Activity
Participation Levels % Change
2012 2016 2017 5-Year Trend 1-Year Trend
# % # % # % Canoeing 9,813 100% 10,046 100% 9,220 100% -6.0% -8.2%
Kayaking (Recreational) 8,187 100% 10,017 100% 10,533 100% 28.7% 5.2%
Snorkeling 8,664 100% 8,717 100% 8,384 100% -3.2% -3.8%
Casual (1-7 times) 6,904 80% 6,945 80% 6,721 80% -2.7% -3.2%
Core (8+ times) 1,760 20% 1,773 20% 1,663 20% -5.5% -6.2%
Jet Skiing 6,996 100% 5,783 100% 5,418 100% -22.6% -6.3%
Casual (1-7 times) 5,125 73% 4,143 72% 3,928 72% -23.4% -5.2%
Core (8+ times) 1,870 27% 1,640 28% 1,490 28% -20.3% -9.1%
Sailing 3,841 100% 4,095 100% 3,974 100% 3.5% -3.0%
Casual (1-7 times) 2,565 67% 2,833 69% 2,720 68% 6.0% -4.0%
Core (8+ times) 1,276 33% 1,262 31% 1,254 32% -1.7% -0.6%
Water Skiing 4,434 100% 3,700 100% 3,572 100% -19.4% -3.5%
Casual (1-7 times) 3,122 70% 2,667 72% 2,575 72% -17.5% -3.4%
Core (8+ times) 1,312 30% 1,033 28% 997 28% -24.0% -3.5%
Rafting 3,756 100% 3,428 100% 3,479 100% -7.4% 1.5%
Stand-Up Paddling 1,392 100% 3,220 100% 3,325 100% 138.9% 3.3%
Kayaking (Sea/Touring) 2,446 100% 3,124 100% 2,955 100% 20.8% -5.4%
Scuba Diving 2,781 100% 3,111 100% 2,874 100% 3.3% -7.6%
Casual (1-7 times) 1,932 69% 2,292 74% 2,113 74% 9.4% -7.8%
Core (8+ times) 849 31% 819 26% 761 26% -10.4% -7.1%
Wakeboarding 3,368 100% 2,912 100% 3,005 100% -10.8% 3.2%
Casual (1-7 times) 2,237 66% 2,017 69% 2,101 70% -6.1% 4.2%
Core (8+ times) 1,132 34% 895 31% 903 30% -20.2% 0.9%
Surfing 2,545 100% 2,793 100% 2,680 100% 5.3% -4.0%
Casual (1-7 times) 1,544 61% 1,768 63% 1,705 64% 10.4% -3.6%
Core (8+ times) 1,001 39% 1,024 37% 975 36% -2.6% -4.8%
Kayaking (White Water) 1,878 100% 2,552 100% 2,500 100% 33.1% -2.0%
Boardsailing/Windsurfing 1,372 100% 1,737 100% 1,573 100% 14.7% -9.4%
Casual (1-7 times) 1,108 81% 1,449 83% 1,289 82% 16.3% -11.0%
Core (8+ times) 264 19% 288 17% 284 18% 7.6% -1.4%
NOTE: Participation figures are in 000's for the US population ages 6 and over
Participation Growth/Decline Large Increase
(greater than 25%)
Moderate Increase (0%
to 25%)
Moderate Decrease
(0% to -25%)
Large Decrease
(less than -25%)
Core vs Casual Distribution Mostly Core Participants
(greater than 75%)
Mo re Co re Participants (56-
74%)
Evenly Divided (45-55% Co re
and Casual)
More Casual Participants
(56-74%)
Mostly Casual Participants
(greater than 75%)
Figure 15: Core vs. Casual Participation Trends by Water Sports Activity (SFIA)