Croatian physical activity and sports trends

Data regarding physical activity and sports engagement in Croatia reveals a complex relationship between national pride, daily movement, and structured exercise.

Research indicates that while 91% of citizens feel pride in Croatian sporting successes, there is a significant gap in actual participation. Eurobarometer data shows that 43% of citizens over the age of 14 report they never exercise, a figure higher than the European Union average of 39%.

Recent findings from the Croatian Institute of Public Health (HZJZ) show shifting lifestyle patterns. While the proportion of people engaging in daily physical activity outside of formal sports rose from 11% to 24% over four years, the number of citizens who never engage in sports or exercise also increased from 40% in 2022 to 43% in 2026.

Daily movement is trending upward, with those walking to work, school, or shops increasing from 23% to 37%, and park usage rising from 23% to 31%. However, the HZJZ noted that these increases in movement do not necessarily equate to a rise in structured sports participation, and the percentage of people sitting for more than eight and a half hours a day remains stable at 12%.