The survey, conducted by the Romanian Institute for Evaluation and Strategy (RIES), polled 1,085 adults by phone between April and May 2025. The margin of error is ±3%.
Lots of walking, little organized sport
So, what did RIES uncover? A notable 68% of Romanians say they engage in “some form of physical activity.” But here’s the catch: only 18% stick to an organized sport at least once a week. When asked for concrete proof, just 10% say they have a gym membership—even though the reported costs (100–200 lei/month) are not exactly prohibitive.
In plain terms: we walk, but we don’t commit. Romanians prefer the casual stroll in the park, not the coach with a whistle.
Time, the most expensive subscription
The number one barrier? Lack of time (42%). Motivation and money follow, both below 20%. Interestingly, 68% admit they wish they had exercised more in the past year—proof that the intention exists, but the logistics are missing.
The study also highlights a psychological brake: nearly one in five respondents has felt shame or fear at the gym or in the park. Body-shaming and critical stares weigh heavier than the dumbbells at the fitness center.
Sport just 15 minutes away… or maybe not
Only half of Romanians live within 20 minutes of a sports facility, running track, or fitness center. Access to swimming pools is even lower (under 20%). On top of that, 45% say sports events are “rarely” held in their community, while 30% say they never see such events.
The conclusion is fairly simple: infrastructure beats enthusiasm. When the nearest stadium exists only on Google Maps and not down your street, the couch wins.
Source: https://ires.ro/uploads/articole/ires_sports-festival_barometrul-sportului-in-romania_editia-i_2025.pdf
Plenty of public campaigns, little impact
Even though three out of four respondents have heard messages like “Get 30 minutes of exercise a day” on TV or radio, only 33% say they are “highly” or “very highly” motivated by them. Conversely, 78% believe that sports promotion is lacking, and only 19% are satisfied with the efforts of local authorities.
What would get people moving?
The Barometer asks directly: who and how can change the game?
The answers: 37% call for real investment in infrastructure (courts, tracks, gyms); 32% want free programs for children and youth. The top “agents of change” named are city halls, the Ministry of Health, and schools.
Why the Barometer matters
First, say the authors, because it’s the first true national snapshot—no one had zoomed in on Romanian sports habits until now. Second, it offers a framework for public policy: the data shows exactly where things fall short—time, infrastructure, social pressure. And third, it can serve as a negotiation tool for sponsors and clubs. After all, you invest smarter when you know what’s missing.
Time for us to step up
The RIES Barometer doesn’t condemn—it maps the playing field: a mix of good intentions and real barriers. If local governments bring sports facilities closer and public campaigns evolve from slogans to real programs, we might see fewer abandoned resolutions and more sweat-soaked T-shirts.
Until the next edition, one question remains: where will you be in the stats—among the 68% who move, or still searching for the perfect excuse with the 32%?