Introduction

Table of Contents

Since 2001, the Sasakawa Sports Foundation (SSF) has

1)
1 Population: 4-21 year olds living in Japan
2)
2 Sample numbers:【4-11 year olds】 2,400

Introduction

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

1

conducted its Sports-Life Survey of Ages 10 to 19 on children

Methods

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

1

between those ages who reside in Japan, with the goal of

Results

11. Exercise and sports frequency ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 2

and sports participation rates of children during after-school
periods and on holidays as well as the sports environments

33. Sports teams/clubs ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 5that surround these children. Then in 2009, the SSF also began
conducting the Sports-Life Survey of Ages 4 to 9 on young

44. Liking exercise and sports ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 6children in order to better ascertain the factors that lead to the

55. Sports spectating ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 7

polarization of exercise and sports participation observed in

77. Self-evaluation of physical strength ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 11
88. Media usage time (screen time) ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 12
99. Exercise, sports and physical play with family ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 14

About SSF

achieving “Sport for Everyone” by understanding the exercise

22. Exercise and sports types ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 4

66. Sports volunteering ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 10

Towards the Realization of "Sport for Everyone" ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 15
Outline of Activities ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 16

Methods

children aged 10–19 and the turning points for thatphenomenon.
Beginning with the previous set of surveys in 2017, the【12-21 year olds】3,000

3)
3 Locations: 225 (205 urban areas and 20 rural areas)

4 Extraction method: 2-staged stratified random sampling
4)
5 Survey methods: Questionnaire sheet left at home
5)
6 Survey period: June-July 20196)
7 Collected questionnaires (rate):
7)【4-11 year olds】 1,538 (64.1%)【12-21 year olds】1,675 (55.8%)

8 Survey contents: Exercise and sports frequency, time and8)intensity, sports facilities, gyms, teams, clubs, liking exercise
and sports, self-evaluation of physical fitness, sports
spectating, favorite athletes, sports volunteering, sleep time,target age groups were changed to 4–11 years and 12–21

time using media(screen time), frequency of exercise andyears; these surveys on exercise and sports participation fromdoing sports with family, etc.

preschool through university age in Japan are conducted
every two years.

9)9 Scope of exercise and sports: Activities and free play thattakes place after kindergarten or preschool, as well as
school club activities and activities during recess periods,
are included. However, lessons received at kindergarten,preschool, or school are not included, nor are school events
such as sports days or race tournaments.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary1Introduction

Table of Contents

Since 2001, the Sasakawa Sports Foundation (SSF) has

1)
1 Population: 4-21 year olds living in Japan
2)
2 Sample numbers:【4-11 year olds】 2,400

Introduction

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

1

conducted its Sports-Life Survey of Ages 10 to 19 on children

Methods

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

1

between those ages who reside in Japan, with the goal of

Results

11. Exercise and sports frequency ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 2

and sports participation rates of children during after-school
periods and on holidays as well as the sports environments

33. Sports teams/clubs ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 5that surround these children. Then in 2009, the SSF also began
conducting the Sports-Life Survey of Ages 4 to 9 on young

44. Liking exercise and sports ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 6children in order to better ascertain the factors that lead to the

55. Sports spectating ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 7

polarization of exercise and sports participation observed in

77. Self-evaluation of physical strength ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 11
88. Media usage time (screen time) ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 12
99. Exercise, sports and physical play with family ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 14

About SSF

achieving “Sport for Everyone” by understanding the exercise

22. Exercise and sports types ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 4

66. Sports volunteering ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 10

Towards the Realization of "Sport for Everyone" ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 15
Outline of Activities ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・ 16

Methods

children aged 10–19 and the turning points for thatphenomenon.
Beginning with the previous set of surveys in 2017, the【12-21 year olds】3,000

3)
3 Locations: 225 (205 urban areas and 20 rural areas)

4 Extraction method: 2-staged stratified random sampling
4)
5 Survey methods: Questionnaire sheet left at home
5)
6 Survey period: June-July 20196)
7 Collected questionnaires (rate):
7)【4-11 year olds】 1,538 (64.1%)【12-21 year olds】1,675 (55.8%)

8 Survey contents: Exercise and sports frequency, time and8)intensity, sports facilities, gyms, teams, clubs, liking exercise
and sports, self-evaluation of physical fitness, sports
spectating, favorite athletes, sports volunteering, sleep time,target age groups were changed to 4–11 years and 12–21

time using media(screen time), frequency of exercise andyears; these surveys on exercise and sports participation fromdoing sports with family, etc.

preschool through university age in Japan are conducted
every two years.

9)9 Scope of exercise and sports: Activities and free play thattakes place after kindergarten or preschool, as well as
school club activities and activities during recess periods,
are included. However, lessons received at kindergarten,preschool, or school are not included, nor are school events
such as sports days or race tournaments.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

1Result

1

Exercise and sports frequency●

4-11 year olds

Exercise and sports frequency groups【Table 1】Exercise and sports frequency groups
Frequency

2

Exercise and sports frequency【Fig.1】Annual trends in exercise and sports frequency groups(4-11 year olds : overall / by gender)

Doing absolutely no exercise
or sports in the past 1 year
(0 times/year)

Low frequency
exercise andsports group

Once a year or more,less than 3 times a week
(1-155 times/year)

Intermediate
frequency exercise
and sports group

3 times a week or more,less than 7 times a week
(156-363 times/year)

High frequency
exercise andsports group

7 times a week or more(364 times a week ormore/year)

Overall 2015 (n=1,382) 3.3

15.7

32.4

48.6

2017 (n=1,573) 2.0

18.1

32.4

47.5

2019 (n=1,538) 3.1

16.4

35.0

45.5

Boys

Girls

2015 (n=700) 3.3 12.9

32.4

51.4

2017 (n=838) 1.9 16.2

31.3

50.6

2019 (n=792) 2.4 14.9

34.8

47.9

2015 (n=682) 3.2

18.6

32.4

45.7

2017 (n=735) 2.0

20.3

33.7

43.9

2019 (n=746) 3.8

18.1

35.1

43.0

0

20

40

60

80

12-21 year olds

Exercise and sports level【Table 2】Exercise and sports level

No exercise or sports group
Low frequency exercise and sports group
Intermediate frequency exercise and sports group
High frequency exercise and sports group

Standards

No exercise or
sports group●100 (%)Level【Fig.2】Annual trends in exercise and sports level(12-21 year olds : overall / by gender)Standards0

Non-participation (0 time/year)

1

At least once during the year but less thanonce a week (1-51 times/year)

2

At least once a week but less than 5 times
a week (52-259 times/year)

3

At least 5 times a week(260 times or more/year)

4

At least 5 times a week (260 times or more/year)with a duration of 120 minutes, and with morethan moderate intensity

Level 0Overall 2015 (n=1,453)

15.3

2017 (n=1,636)

16.5

Boys

Girls

13.1

2015 (n=738)

11.4

2017 (n=852)

12.2

2019 (n=875)

15.7

2015 (n=715)

19.3

2017 (n=784)

21.2

0

18.2

24.7
37.8

20.9

19.9

16.2

40

31.3
20.6

21.8
16.4

33.8

19.2
20.1

18.2

20

27.3

20.1

19.5

13.9

28.3

2019 (n=800)

20.3

Level 4

30.9

19.7

20.6

13.6

Level 3

20.3

20.6

15.1

10.2

Level 2

20.4

15.8

21.7

2019 (n=1,675)

Level 1

23.8

18.5

20.8

20.3

17.1
60

17.5
80

100 (%)

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Surveyof Children Ages 4 to 11*1) 2015 was calculated by adding the data for ten- and eleven-year-olds from Sports-Life Survey of Ages 10 to 19.
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Children Ages 4 to 11

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Surveyof Ages 12 to 21*1) 2015 was calculated by analyzing the data for twelve- through nineteen-year-olds from Sports-Life Survey of Ages 10 to 19.
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

The 4-11 year old group was divided into the 4 groupsof “the no exercise or sports group,” “low frequency
exercise and sports group,” “intermediate frequency
exercise and sports group” and “high frequency exercise
and sports group” based on standards set from exercise
and sports frequency over the past year (Table 1).

Annual trends in exercise and sports frequency groups (ages 4–11) are indicated in Figure 1.
At 45.5% overall, the high-frequency group was the most common in the 2019 survey, followed by
the intermediate-frequency group (35.0%), the low-frequency group (16.4%), and the no-exercisegroup (3.1%). The ratio of the high-frequency group has exhibited a declining trend since 2015.
In terms of gender, the high-frequency rate for boys was 4.9points higher than that for girls,
with 47.9% of boys and 43.0% of girls in the high-frequency group. The ratio of the high-frequency
group has declined for both boys and girls since 2015.

The 12-21 year olds were classified into 5 levels fromlevel 0 to level 4 based on standards set from exercise andsports frequency, time and intensity over the past year
(Table 2).

Annual trends in exercise and sports participation levels (ages 12–21) are indicated in Figure 2.
The overall rates in the 2019 survey were 21.7% for Level 0, 15.1% for Level 1, 20.3% for Level 2,
18.2% for Level 3, and 24.7% for Level 4. Looking at the annual trends, Level 4, which indicateshigh frequency and intensity, is declining, while Level 0, which indicates no exercise or sports, isincreasing.
In terms of gender, Level 4 was the highest for boys (31.3%), while Level 0 was the highest forgirls (28.3%). Both boys and girls exhibit annual trends of a declining Level 4 and an increasing
Level 0. In particular, Level 0 has increased 9points for girls since 2015.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

3

Result

1

Exercise and sports frequency●

4-11 year olds

Exercise and sports frequency groups【Table 1】Exercise and sports frequency groups
Frequency

2

Exercise and sports frequency【Fig.1】Annual trends in exercise and sports frequency groups(4-11 year olds : overall / by gender)

Doing absolutely no exercise
or sports in the past 1 year
(0 times/year)

Low frequency
exercise andsports group

Once a year or more,less than 3 times a week
(1-155 times/year)

Intermediate
frequency exercise
and sports group

3 times a week or more,less than 7 times a week
(156-363 times/year)

High frequency
exercise andsports group

7 times a week or more(364 times a week ormore/year)

Overall 2015 (n=1,382) 3.3

15.7

32.4

48.6

2017 (n=1,573) 2.0

18.1

32.4

47.5

2019 (n=1,538) 3.1

16.4

35.0

45.5

Boys

Girls

2015 (n=700) 3.3 12.9

32.4

51.4

2017 (n=838) 1.9 16.2

31.3

50.6

2019 (n=792) 2.4 14.9

34.8

47.9

2015 (n=682) 3.2

18.6

32.4

45.7

2017 (n=735) 2.0

20.3

33.7

43.9

2019 (n=746) 3.8

18.1

35.1

43.0

0

20

40

60

80

12-21 year olds

Exercise and sports level【Table 2】Exercise and sports level

No exercise or sports group
Low frequency exercise and sports group
Intermediate frequency exercise and sports group
High frequency exercise and sports group

Standards

No exercise or
sports group●100 (%)Level【Fig.2】Annual trends in exercise and sports level(12-21 year olds : overall / by gender)Standards0

Non-participation (0 time/year)

1

At least once during the year but less thanonce a week (1-51 times/year)

2

At least once a week but less than 5 times
a week (52-259 times/year)

3

At least 5 times a week(260 times or more/year)

4

At least 5 times a week (260 times or more/year)with a duration of 120 minutes, and with morethan moderate intensity

Level 0Overall 2015 (n=1,453)

15.3

2017 (n=1,636)

16.5

Boys

Girls

13.1

2015 (n=738)

11.4

2017 (n=852)

12.2

2019 (n=875)

15.7

2015 (n=715)

19.3

2017 (n=784)

21.2

0

18.2

24.7
37.8

20.9

19.9

16.2

40

31.3
20.6

21.8
16.4

33.8

19.2
20.1

18.2

20

27.3

20.1

19.5

13.9

28.3

2019 (n=800)

20.3

Level 4

30.9

19.7

20.6

13.6

Level 3

20.3

20.6

15.1

10.2

Level 2

20.4

15.8

21.7

2019 (n=1,675)

Level 1

23.8

18.5

20.8

20.3

17.1
60

17.5
80

100 (%)

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Surveyof Children Ages 4 to 11*1) 2015 was calculated by adding the data for ten- and eleven-year-olds from Sports-Life Survey of Ages 10 to 19.
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Children Ages 4 to 11

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Surveyof Ages 12 to 21*1) 2015 was calculated by analyzing the data for twelve- through nineteen-year-olds from Sports-Life Survey of Ages 10 to 19.
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

The 4-11 year old group was divided into the 4 groupsof “the no exercise or sports group,” “low frequency
exercise and sports group,” “intermediate frequency
exercise and sports group” and “high frequency exercise
and sports group” based on standards set from exercise
and sports frequency over the past year (Table 1).

Annual trends in exercise and sports frequency groups (ages 4–11) are indicated in Figure 1.
At 45.5% overall, the high-frequency group was the most common in the 2019 survey, followed by
the intermediate-frequency group (35.0%), the low-frequency group (16.4%), and the no-exercisegroup (3.1%). The ratio of the high-frequency group has exhibited a declining trend since 2015.
In terms of gender, the high-frequency rate for boys was 4.9points higher than that for girls,
with 47.9% of boys and 43.0% of girls in the high-frequency group. The ratio of the high-frequency
group has declined for both boys and girls since 2015.

The 12-21 year olds were classified into 5 levels fromlevel 0 to level 4 based on standards set from exercise andsports frequency, time and intensity over the past year
(Table 2).

Annual trends in exercise and sports participation levels (ages 12–21) are indicated in Figure 2.
The overall rates in the 2019 survey were 21.7% for Level 0, 15.1% for Level 1, 20.3% for Level 2,
18.2% for Level 3, and 24.7% for Level 4. Looking at the annual trends, Level 4, which indicateshigh frequency and intensity, is declining, while Level 0, which indicates no exercise or sports, isincreasing.
In terms of gender, Level 4 was the highest for boys (31.3%), while Level 0 was the highest forgirls (28.3%). Both boys and girls exhibit annual trends of a declining Level 4 and an increasing
Level 0. In particular, Level 0 has increased 9points for girls since 2015.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

3

Result

2

Exercise and sports types

Sports teams/clubs●【Table 3】Exercise and sport types often carried out over the past year (multiple answers)
4-11 year olds (n=1,491)
Rank

Type of exercise / sport

1

Tag

2

Swimming

3

Dodgeball

4

Bicycle riding

5

Soccer6

Swings7

Jump rope (including long jump rope)

8

Race

9

Hide-and-seek

10

Iron bar

11

Basketball12

Badminton

13

Baseball14

gymnastics, morning )Gymnastics ( lightradio calisthenics, etc.

15

Catch

16

Unicycle17

Table tennis

18

Scooter

19

Trampoline
Hip hop dance●【Fig. 3】Participation rate in sports teams/clubs(4-11 year olds : overall / by gender)

12-21 year olds

3

【Fig. 4】Participation rate in sports teams/clubs(12-21 year olds : overall / by gender)

12-21 year olds (n=1,312)
%

Rank

52.6
34.1
29.0
27.6
26.0
25.7
24.4
17.9
17.2
17.0
8.9
8.5
6.7
6.2
5.6
4.6
4.4
4.2
3.6
3.6

1

Soccer2

Basketball3

Jogging/running

4

Badminton

5Type of exercise / sport

Muscle training
Volleyball

7

Table tennis

8

Tag

9

Baseball

10

Walking

11

Swimming

12

Bowling

13

Soft tennis

14

Track & Field

15

Jump rope (including long jump rope)

16

Catch
Dodgeball

18

Tennis19

Cycling

20

Swings

%
21.5
20.0
17.5
16.5
13.5
13.5
13.0
11.9
11.5
11.1
10.1
8.9
8.2
6.9
6.8
5.9
5.9
5.6
5.2
4.8

*1) Types of exercise and sports carried out often: Type of exercise and/or sport carried out the most frequently among the exercises
and sports carried out over the past year.
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Children Ages 4 to 11 and National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

4

4-11 year olds

ResultThe 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

57.6

Overall (n=1,534)

Table 3 indicates the top twenty
exercise or sports activities that weredone often (on many occasions) inthe past year.
For the 4–11 age group, “tag” wasthe highest at 52.6%, followed by“swimming” at 34.1%, “dodgeball” at
29.0%, “bicycle riding” at 27.6%, and“soccer” at 26.0%.
For the 12–21 age group, “soccer”
was in first place at 21.5%, followedby “basketball” at 20.0%,“jogging/running” at 17.5%,“badminton” at 16.5%, and “muscle
training” and “volleyball” at 13.5%
each.

Boys

(n=790)Girls(n=744)

63.0
51.7
0

20

40

60

48.5

Overall (n=1,665)

80 (%)

Boys(n=870)Girls(n=795)

57.4
38.7
0

20

40

60

80 (%)*1) Including school club activities, sports teams, private sports teams/clubs (swimming,
gymnastics, etc.), regional sports teams/clubs (youth sports team, regional sports classes, etc.).
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Children Ages 4 to 11*1) Including school club activities, sports teams, private sports teams/clubs (swimming,
gymnastics, etc.), regional sports teams/clubs (youth sports team, regional sports classes, etc.).
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

The participation rates in sports teams/clubs for ages 4–11 are indicatedin Figure 3. The overall rate of participation in sports teams/clubs for ages
4–11 was 57.6%.
In terms of gender, boys had a participation rate of 63.0% and girls had aparticipation rate of 51.7%.

The participation rates in sports teams/clubs for ages 12–21 are indicatedin Figure 4. The overall rate of participation in sports teams/clubs for ages
12–21 was 48.5%.
In terms of gender, boys had a participation rate of 57.4% and girls had aparticipation rate of 38.7%.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

5Result

2

Exercise and sports types

Sports teams/clubs●【Table 3】Exercise and sport types often carried out over the past year (multiple answers)
4-11 year olds (n=1,491)
Rank

Type of exercise / sport

1

Tag

2

Swimming

3

Dodgeball

4

Bicycle riding

5

Soccer6

Swings7

Jump rope (including long jump rope)

8

Race

9

Hide-and-seek

10

Iron bar

11

Basketball12

Badminton

13

Baseball14

gymnastics, morning )Gymnastics ( lightradio calisthenics, etc.

15

Catch

16

Unicycle17

Table tennis

18

Scooter

19

Trampoline
Hip hop dance●【Fig. 3】Participation rate in sports teams/clubs(4-11 year olds : overall / by gender)

12-21 year olds

3

【Fig. 4】Participation rate in sports teams/clubs(12-21 year olds : overall / by gender)

12-21 year olds (n=1,312)
%

Rank

52.6
34.1
29.0
27.6
26.0
25.7
24.4
17.9
17.2
17.0
8.9
8.5
6.7
6.2
5.6
4.6
4.4
4.2
3.6
3.6

1

Soccer2

Basketball3

Jogging/running

4

Badminton

5Type of exercise / sport

Muscle training
Volleyball

7

Table tennis

8

Tag

9

Baseball

10

Walking

11

Swimming

12

Bowling

13

Soft tennis

14

Track & Field

15

Jump rope (including long jump rope)

16

Catch
Dodgeball

18

Tennis19

Cycling

20

Swings

%
21.5
20.0
17.5
16.5
13.5
13.5
13.0
11.9
11.5
11.1
10.1
8.9
8.2
6.9
6.8
5.9
5.9
5.6
5.2
4.8

*1) Types of exercise and sports carried out often: Type of exercise and/or sport carried out the most frequently among the exercises
and sports carried out over the past year.
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Children Ages 4 to 11 and National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

4

4-11 year olds

ResultThe 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

57.6

Overall (n=1,534)

Table 3 indicates the top twenty
exercise or sports activities that weredone often (on many occasions) inthe past year.
For the 4–11 age group, “tag” wasthe highest at 52.6%, followed by“swimming” at 34.1%, “dodgeball” at
29.0%, “bicycle riding” at 27.6%, and“soccer” at 26.0%.
For the 12–21 age group, “soccer”
was in first place at 21.5%, followedby “basketball” at 20.0%,“jogging/running” at 17.5%,“badminton” at 16.5%, and “muscle
training” and “volleyball” at 13.5%
each.

Boys

(n=790)Girls(n=744)

63.0
51.7
0

20

40

60

48.5

Overall (n=1,665)

80 (%)

Boys(n=870)Girls(n=795)

57.4
38.7
0

20

40

60

80 (%)*1) Including school club activities, sports teams, private sports teams/clubs (swimming,
gymnastics, etc.), regional sports teams/clubs (youth sports team, regional sports classes, etc.).
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Children Ages 4 to 11*1) Including school club activities, sports teams, private sports teams/clubs (swimming,
gymnastics, etc.), regional sports teams/clubs (youth sports team, regional sports classes, etc.).
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

The participation rates in sports teams/clubs for ages 4–11 are indicatedin Figure 3. The overall rate of participation in sports teams/clubs for ages
4–11 was 57.6%.
In terms of gender, boys had a participation rate of 63.0% and girls had aparticipation rate of 51.7%.

The participation rates in sports teams/clubs for ages 12–21 are indicatedin Figure 4. The overall rate of participation in sports teams/clubs for ages
12–21 was 48.5%.
In terms of gender, boys had a participation rate of 57.4% and girls had aparticipation rate of 38.7%.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

5Result

4

Liking exercise and sports

Sports spectating
1 Rate of live viewing of sports at the venue【Fig. 5】Liking exercise and sports●

Result5

12-21 year olds

【Fig. 6】Rate of live viewing of sports at the venue (12-21 year olds : overall / by gender)
I like doing exercise
and sports

If I had to choose, I would
say I like doing exercise
and sports

4-11 year olds

If I had to choose, I would
say I do not like doing
exercise and sports

65.9(n=1,533)

I do not like doing
exercise and sports

23.6

7.9
2.6

12-21 year olds

46.8

(n=1,668)

0

20

30.9
40

60

16.5
80

5.8
100 (%)

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Children 4-11 and National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

The rates of liking and disliking exercise and sports are indicatedin Figure 5. For ages 4–11, “I like doing exercise and sports” was
65.9%, “If I had to choose, I would say I like doing exercise andsports” was 23.6%, “If I had to choose, I would say I do not likedoing exercise and sports” was 7.9%, and “I do not like doing
exercise and sports” was 2.6%.

6

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

37.2

Overall (n=1,665)

For ages 12–21, “I like doing exercise and sports” was 46.8%, “If
I had to choose, I would say I like doing exercise and sports” was
30.9%, “If I had to choose, I would say I do not like doing exercise
and sports” was 16.5%, and “I do not like doing exercise andsports” was 5.8%.

Boys(n=868)Girls(n=797)

41.7
32.4
0

10

20

30

40

50 (%)

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

The rates of live sports viewing for ages 12–21 are
indicated in Figure 6.
Overall, 37.2% of survey participants watched a sports

match at a gymnasium, stadium, or other facility in the past
year. In terms of gender, 41.7% of boys and 32.4% of girls
watched a live match.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

7

Result

4

Liking exercise and sports

Sports spectating
1 Rate of live viewing of sports at the venue【Fig. 5】Liking exercise and sports●

Result5

12-21 year olds

【Fig. 6】Rate of live viewing of sports at the venue (12-21 year olds : overall / by gender)
I like doing exercise
and sports

If I had to choose, I would
say I like doing exercise
and sports

4-11 year olds

If I had to choose, I would
say I do not like doing
exercise and sports

65.9(n=1,533)

I do not like doing
exercise and sports

23.6

7.9
2.6

12-21 year olds

46.8

(n=1,668)

0

20

30.9
40

60

16.5
80

5.8
100 (%)

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Children 4-11 and National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

The rates of liking and disliking exercise and sports are indicatedin Figure 5. For ages 4–11, “I like doing exercise and sports” was
65.9%, “If I had to choose, I would say I like doing exercise andsports” was 23.6%, “If I had to choose, I would say I do not likedoing exercise and sports” was 7.9%, and “I do not like doing
exercise and sports” was 2.6%.

6

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

37.2

Overall (n=1,665)

For ages 12–21, “I like doing exercise and sports” was 46.8%, “If
I had to choose, I would say I like doing exercise and sports” was
30.9%, “If I had to choose, I would say I do not like doing exercise
and sports” was 16.5%, and “I do not like doing exercise andsports” was 5.8%.

Boys(n=868)Girls(n=797)

41.7
32.4
0

10

20

30

40

50 (%)

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

The rates of live sports viewing for ages 12–21 are
indicated in Figure 6.
Overall, 37.2% of survey participants watched a sports

match at a gymnasium, stadium, or other facility in the past
year. In terms of gender, 41.7% of boys and 32.4% of girls
watched a live match.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

7

Result

5Sports spectatingSports spectating

2 Type of sports viewed live at the venue●

3 Sports viewing rates via media

12-21 year olds●

【Table 4】Type of sports viewed live at the venue by 12-21 year olds (overall / by gender : multiple answers)
(%)

Rank

OverallType of sportBoys(n=1,665)(n=868)(n=797)

Professional baseball (NPB)

12.0

14.2

9.7

2

High school baseball

10.1

11.5

8.5

3

J League (J1, J2 and J3)

6.2

9.6

2.5

4

Basketball (high school, university, NBL, WJBL, etc.)

4.4

4.4

4.4

5

Soccer (high school, university, JFL, etc.)

3.7

5.0

2.4

62.8

58.3

67.6

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

Table 4 indicates the sports that were viewed live by the
12–21 age group.
Overall, “professional baseball (NPB)” had the highest
viewing rate at 12.0%, followed by “high-school baseball”
at 10.1%, “J League (J1, J2, J3)” at 6.2%, “basketball(high-school, university, NBL, WJBL, etc.)” at 4.4%, and

8

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary【Fig. 7】Sports viewing rate via media such as television and smartphones(ages 12–21 : overall / by gender)

Girl

1

I have not viewed sports live

12-21 year olds

“soccer (high-school, university, JFL, etc.)” at 3.7%.
For both boys and girls, “professional baseball (NPB)”
had the highest viewing rate (14.2% for boys and 9.7% forgirls), followed by “high-school baseball” (11.5% for boys
and 8.5% for girls).

72.4

Overall (n=1,671)

Boys(n=871)Girls(n=800)

77.3
67.1
0

20

40

60

80

100 (%)*1) Includes viewing through media such as television, smartphones, tablets, PCs, etc.
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

The rates of sports viewed through media such as
television and smartphones for ages 12–21 are indicated in
Figure 7. Overall, 72.4% of survey participants viewed

a sports match using a television, smartphone, or other formof media in the past year. In terms of gender, 77.3% of boys
and 67.1% of girls viewed a sports match via such media.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

9Result

5Sports spectatingSports spectating

2 Type of sports viewed live at the venue●

3 Sports viewing rates via media

12-21 year olds●

【Table 4】Type of sports viewed live at the venue by 12-21 year olds (overall / by gender : multiple answers)
(%)

Rank

OverallType of sportBoys(n=1,665)(n=868)(n=797)

Professional baseball (NPB)

12.0

14.2

9.7

2

High school baseball

10.1

11.5

8.5

3

J League (J1, J2 and J3)

6.2

9.6

2.5

4

Basketball (high school, university, NBL, WJBL, etc.)

4.4

4.4

4.4

5

Soccer (high school, university, JFL, etc.)

3.7

5.0

2.4

62.8

58.3

67.6

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

Table 4 indicates the sports that were viewed live by the
12–21 age group.
Overall, “professional baseball (NPB)” had the highest
viewing rate at 12.0%, followed by “high-school baseball”
at 10.1%, “J League (J1, J2, J3)” at 6.2%, “basketball(high-school, university, NBL, WJBL, etc.)” at 4.4%, and

8

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary【Fig. 7】Sports viewing rate via media such as television and smartphones(ages 12–21 : overall / by gender)

Girl

1

I have not viewed sports live

12-21 year olds

“soccer (high-school, university, JFL, etc.)” at 3.7%.
For both boys and girls, “professional baseball (NPB)”
had the highest viewing rate (14.2% for boys and 9.7% forgirls), followed by “high-school baseball” (11.5% for boys
and 8.5% for girls).

72.4

Overall (n=1,671)

Boys(n=871)Girls(n=800)

77.3
67.1
0

20

40

60

80

100 (%)*1) Includes viewing through media such as television, smartphones, tablets, PCs, etc.
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

The rates of sports viewed through media such as
television and smartphones for ages 12–21 are indicated in
Figure 7. Overall, 72.4% of survey participants viewed

a sports match using a television, smartphone, or other formof media in the past year. In terms of gender, 77.3% of boys
and 67.1% of girls viewed a sports match via such media.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

9Result

6Sports volunteering●

Self-evaluation of physical strength12-21 year olds●

【Fig. 8】Sports volunteer rate
(12-21 year olds : overall / by gender)【Fig. 9】Sports volunteer activities (12-21 year olds)(n=209 : Multiple answers)

12-21 year olds

Sports instruction or
helping with sports
instruction

12.5(n=1,672)

Boys(n=873)

Girls
0

5

10

15

20 (%)

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

38.8
0

20

40

60

80 (%)

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

Figure 8 indicates the sports volunteering rates for ages 12–21.
Overall, 12.5% of subjects participated in sports volunteering in thepast year.
The sports volunteering rate for boys (14.0%) was higher than that forgirls (10.9%).

10 The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

12.9

Overall (n=1,670)

54.5

Helping witha sporting event

10.9(n=799)31.1

Referee or helping
the referee

14.0

7

【Fig. 10】Self-evaluation of physical strength (ages 12–21: overall / by gender)

Very Strong

Overall

ResultWhen asked about the type of sports volunteering they participated in,most subjects responded with “referee or helping the referee (54.5%),
followed by “helping with a sporting event (38.8%) and “sports
instruction or helping with sports instruction” (31.1%), as indicated in
Figure 9.

Boys(n=873)Girls(n=797)

30.7

16.6
8.9
0

Fairly Strong

Average

Not Very Strong

Weak

28.4

20.8

7.1

33.3

29.3

27.9
20

27.5
40

14.8
27.4

60

80

6.0
8.4
100 (%)

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

Subjects in the 12–21 age group were asked how they felt about
their own physical strength. Overall, 12.9% responded with “verystrong,” 30.7% with “fairly strong,” 28.4% with “average,” 20.8%
with “not very strong,” and 7.1% with “weak” (Figure 10).

In terms of gender, a total of 49.9% of boys responded with“very strong” or “fairly strong,” which is 13.1points higher thanthat total for girls (36.8%).

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

11

Result

6Sports volunteering●

Self-evaluation of physical strength12-21 year olds●

【Fig. 8】Sports volunteer rate
(12-21 year olds : overall / by gender)【Fig. 9】Sports volunteer activities (12-21 year olds)(n=209 : Multiple answers)

12-21 year olds

Sports instruction or
helping with sports
instruction

12.5(n=1,672)

Boys(n=873)

Girls
0

5

10

15

20 (%)

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

38.8
0

20

40

60

80 (%)

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

Figure 8 indicates the sports volunteering rates for ages 12–21.
Overall, 12.5% of subjects participated in sports volunteering in thepast year.
The sports volunteering rate for boys (14.0%) was higher than that forgirls (10.9%).

10 The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

12.9

Overall (n=1,670)

54.5

Helping witha sporting event

10.9(n=799)31.1

Referee or helping
the referee

14.0

7

【Fig. 10】Self-evaluation of physical strength (ages 12–21: overall / by gender)

Very Strong

Overall

ResultWhen asked about the type of sports volunteering they participated in,most subjects responded with “referee or helping the referee (54.5%),
followed by “helping with a sporting event (38.8%) and “sports
instruction or helping with sports instruction” (31.1%), as indicated in
Figure 9.

Boys(n=873)Girls(n=797)

30.7

16.6
8.9
0

Fairly Strong

Average

Not Very Strong

Weak

28.4

20.8

7.1

33.3

29.3

27.9
20

27.5
40

14.8
27.4

60

80

6.0
8.4
100 (%)

Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

Subjects in the 12–21 age group were asked how they felt about
their own physical strength. Overall, 12.9% responded with “verystrong,” 30.7% with “fairly strong,” 28.4% with “average,” 20.8%
with “not very strong,” and 7.1% with “weak” (Figure 10).

In terms of gender, a total of 49.9% of boys responded with“very strong” or “fairly strong,” which is 13.1points higher thanthat total for girls (36.8%).

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

11

Result

8Media usage time (screen time)●Media usage time (screen time)

4-11 year olds●

【Fig. 11】Media usage time (4-11 year olds : overall / by gender)

Weekdays

13.9(n=1,525)

Boys

22.8

11.1

(n=784)

Girls

22.4

16.9

(n=741)

Days off【Fig. 12】Media usage time (12-21 year olds : overall / by gender)Less than 30 min.

Overall

23.2

Overall 6.5 10.4
(n=1,523)

21.6

Boys 5.2 9.7(n=783)

20.9

Girls

7.8

(n=740)
0

11.2

28.9

22.5

7.1

30.6

23.9

7.3

21.1

7.0

27.0
27.2
27.6

22.3
20

26.9
40

12-21 year olds

2.2

1.8

16.4

7.6 7.2

16.2

7.9

16.6
60

2.0

80

9.2
7.2 5.0

1.9
0.9
1.7
0.9
2.2
0.9

30 min. to less than 1 hour
1 hour to less than 2 hours

Less than 30 min.

4.1 10.0

20.0

26.8

15.2

8.7

9.3 5.9

4.0 9.7(n=875)

19.5

29.1

15.0

8.0

8.9 5.7

20.6

24.2

9.4

9.8

(n=1,672)Girls

3 hours to less than 4 hours(n=797)

4 hours to less than 5 hours

I don't know

OverallBoys

2 hours to less than 3 hours

5 hours or more

3.1

Weekdays

Days off

4.1 10.4

Overall(n=1,669)

6.0

3.8 10.6

19.0

19.2

16.2

22.5

7.1

1.7

Boys

15.4

3.2

(n=874)

3.5 10.2

18.6

20.1

16.2

21.7

7.3

3.0

Girls 4.0
11.1
(n=795)

19.4

18.2

16.1

23.3

6.8

100 (%)

0

60

80

2.2

1.1

20

40

30 min. to less than 1 hour
1 hour to less than 2 hours
2 hours to less than 3 hours
3 hours to less than 4 hours
4 hours to less than 5 hours
5 hours or more
I don't know

100 (%)*1) Number of hours watching TV or DVD, using computer, video games (including TV, computer and cellular device games, etc.) or using smart phone per day outside of school class(including kindergarten and pre-school).
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Children Ages 4 to 11*1) Number of hours watching TV or DVD, using computer, video games (including TV, computer and cellular device games, etc.) or using smart phone per day outside of school and/or work.
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

Figure 11 indicates the media usage time (screen time) on weekdays andholidays for the 4–11 age group.
Regarding the media usage time per day (outside of lessons at
kindergarten, preschool, or school), the highest reported answer for weekdays

Figure 12 indicates the media usage time (screen time) on weekdays andholidays for the 12–21 age group.
Regarding the media usage time per day (outside of work or lessons at
school), the highest reported answer for weekdays was “2 hours to less than

12 The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

was “1 hour to less than 2 hours” (28.9%) followed by “30 min. to less than 1hour” (22.8%). For holidays, the most frequent response was “2 hours to lessthan 3 hours” (27.2%) followed by “1 hour to less than 2 hours” (21.6%).

3 hours” (26.8%) followed by “1 hour to less than 2 hours” (20.0%). For
holidays, the most frequent response was “5 hours or more” (22.5%); the rateof individuals who use media for longer periods of time on holidays compared
to weekdays is increasing.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

13

Result

8Media usage time (screen time)●Media usage time (screen time)

4-11 year olds●

【Fig. 11】Media usage time (4-11 year olds : overall / by gender)

Weekdays

13.9(n=1,525)

Boys

22.8

11.1

(n=784)

Girls

22.4

16.9

(n=741)

Days off【Fig. 12】Media usage time (12-21 year olds : overall / by gender)Less than 30 min.

Overall

23.2

Overall 6.5 10.4
(n=1,523)

21.6

Boys 5.2 9.7(n=783)

20.9

Girls

7.8

(n=740)
0

11.2

28.9

22.5

7.1

30.6

23.9

7.3

21.1

7.0

27.0
27.2
27.6

22.3
20

26.9
40

12-21 year olds

2.2

1.8

16.4

7.6 7.2

16.2

7.9

16.6
60

2.0

80

9.2
7.2 5.0

1.9
0.9
1.7
0.9
2.2
0.9

30 min. to less than 1 hour
1 hour to less than 2 hours

Less than 30 min.

4.1 10.0

20.0

26.8

15.2

8.7

9.3 5.9

4.0 9.7(n=875)

19.5

29.1

15.0

8.0

8.9 5.7

20.6

24.2

9.4

9.8

(n=1,672)Girls

3 hours to less than 4 hours(n=797)

4 hours to less than 5 hours

I don't know

OverallBoys

2 hours to less than 3 hours

5 hours or more

3.1

Weekdays

Days off

4.1 10.4

Overall(n=1,669)

6.0

3.8 10.6

19.0

19.2

16.2

22.5

7.1

1.7

Boys

15.4

3.2

(n=874)

3.5 10.2

18.6

20.1

16.2

21.7

7.3

3.0

Girls 4.0
11.1
(n=795)

19.4

18.2

16.1

23.3

6.8

100 (%)

0

60

80

2.2

1.1

20

40

30 min. to less than 1 hour
1 hour to less than 2 hours
2 hours to less than 3 hours
3 hours to less than 4 hours
4 hours to less than 5 hours
5 hours or more
I don't know

100 (%)*1) Number of hours watching TV or DVD, using computer, video games (including TV, computer and cellular device games, etc.) or using smart phone per day outside of school class(including kindergarten and pre-school).
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Children Ages 4 to 11*1) Number of hours watching TV or DVD, using computer, video games (including TV, computer and cellular device games, etc.) or using smart phone per day outside of school and/or work.
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Ages 12 to 21

Figure 11 indicates the media usage time (screen time) on weekdays andholidays for the 4–11 age group.
Regarding the media usage time per day (outside of lessons at
kindergarten, preschool, or school), the highest reported answer for weekdays

Figure 12 indicates the media usage time (screen time) on weekdays andholidays for the 12–21 age group.
Regarding the media usage time per day (outside of work or lessons at
school), the highest reported answer for weekdays was “2 hours to less than

12 The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

was “1 hour to less than 2 hours” (28.9%) followed by “30 min. to less than 1hour” (22.8%). For holidays, the most frequent response was “2 hours to lessthan 3 hours” (27.2%) followed by “1 hour to less than 2 hours” (21.6%).

3 hours” (26.8%) followed by “1 hour to less than 2 hours” (20.0%). For
holidays, the most frequent response was “5 hours or more” (22.5%); the rateof individuals who use media for longer periods of time on holidays compared
to weekdays is increasing.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

13

Result

9

About SSF

Exercise, sports and physical play with family●

4-11 year olds

【Fig. 13】Exercise, sports and physical play with family (4-11 year olds) (overall / by gender of child)

Often

Overall (n=1,529)

Boys(n=788)Girls(n=741)0

Sometimes

Almost neverNot at all

13.1

51.3

28.3

7.3

15.0

50.1

28.0

6.9

11.2

52.5

28.6

7.7

20

40

60

80

100 (%)*1) Family indicate parents and guardians.
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Children Ages 4 to 11

Figure 13 indicates the frequency of engaging in exercise or
sports together with family for the 4–11 age group.
Parents or guardians of respondents in the 4–11 age groupwere asked: “Do you or another family member regularly engage
in exercise, sports, or physical play together with the childparticipating in the survey?”

14 The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

Overall, 13.1% responded with “often,” 51.3% with“sometimes,” 28.3% with “almost never,” and 7.3% with “not atall.” A total of 64.4% of children aged 4–11 engaged in exercise,sports, or physical play together with a family member “often” or“sometimes.”
This total number was 65.1% for boys and 63.7% for girls.

Towards the Realization of "Sport for Everyone"
The Sasakawa Sports Foundation (SSF) was established in March 1991.
Since the establishment, SSF has implemented a wide range of activities such as survey
research, grant programs, and international cultural exchange in order to promote theenjoyment of sports by "anyone, anytime, anywhere".
As Japan has faced the declining birthrate and the aging society, the public awarenessabout the importance of sports and healthy lifestyles has increased. Despite this fact, overthe past ten years, the number of people who are unaccustomed to playing sports hasremained steady at five out of ten. SSF believes that it is our responsibility to change thisshocking statistic while helping create a healthy, dynamic environment for everyone, themission of SSF.
The first decade of the 21st century has now gone and we have begun to see a pushtoward new sports policies by the government. SSF celebrated its 20th anniversary amid
the ongoing changes, and has decided to enhance the research function, which compiles andanalyzes a wide variety of survey data. We are thus able to proactively propose
governmental policy on local and national levels and propose programs to sports
organizations. In addition, we are also able to develop and implement programs that
embody our vision of sports in the future.
SSF will continue promoting the firm establishment of "Sport for Everyone," a philosophy
that aims to create a happier, healthier society, with the ultimate goal of enriching theathletic lives of each individual and creating an environment in which people can continue
enjoying sports in their own ways.

Kazutoshi Watanabe, President
Sasakawa Sports Foundation

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

15

Result

9

About SSF

Exercise, sports and physical play with family●

4-11 year olds

【Fig. 13】Exercise, sports and physical play with family (4-11 year olds) (overall / by gender of child)

Often

Overall (n=1,529)

Boys(n=788)Girls(n=741)0

Sometimes

Almost neverNot at all

13.1

51.3

28.3

7.3

15.0

50.1

28.0

6.9

11.2

52.5

28.6

7.7

20

40

60

80

100 (%)*1) Family indicate parents and guardians.
Source: 2019 Sasakawa Sports Foundation National Sports-Life Survey of Children Ages 4 to 11

Figure 13 indicates the frequency of engaging in exercise or
sports together with family for the 4–11 age group.
Parents or guardians of respondents in the 4–11 age groupwere asked: “Do you or another family member regularly engage
in exercise, sports, or physical play together with the childparticipating in the survey?”

14 The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

Overall, 13.1% responded with “often,” 51.3% with“sometimes,” 28.3% with “almost never,” and 7.3% with “not atall.” A total of 64.4% of children aged 4–11 engaged in exercise,sports, or physical play together with a family member “often” or“sometimes.”
This total number was 65.1% for boys and 63.7% for girls.

Towards the Realization of "Sport for Everyone"
The Sasakawa Sports Foundation (SSF) was established in March 1991.
Since the establishment, SSF has implemented a wide range of activities such as survey
research, grant programs, and international cultural exchange in order to promote theenjoyment of sports by "anyone, anytime, anywhere".
As Japan has faced the declining birthrate and the aging society, the public awarenessabout the importance of sports and healthy lifestyles has increased. Despite this fact, overthe past ten years, the number of people who are unaccustomed to playing sports hasremained steady at five out of ten. SSF believes that it is our responsibility to change thisshocking statistic while helping create a healthy, dynamic environment for everyone, themission of SSF.
The first decade of the 21st century has now gone and we have begun to see a pushtoward new sports policies by the government. SSF celebrated its 20th anniversary amid
the ongoing changes, and has decided to enhance the research function, which compiles andanalyzes a wide variety of survey data. We are thus able to proactively propose
governmental policy on local and national levels and propose programs to sports
organizations. In addition, we are also able to develop and implement programs that
embody our vision of sports in the future.
SSF will continue promoting the firm establishment of "Sport for Everyone," a philosophy
that aims to create a happier, healthier society, with the ultimate goal of enriching theathletic lives of each individual and creating an environment in which people can continue
enjoying sports in their own ways.

Kazutoshi Watanabe, President
Sasakawa Sports Foundation

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

15

About SSF
Outline of Activities

1

Research and surveys

2

Collaboration with local governments

3

Public relations

The Institute of Sports Policy, established in SSF carries out fact-finding surveys, casestudies and empirical research in the three fields of "sports policy","community-building
through sports" and "promotion of sports among children and youth".
The institute gathers and analyses quantitative data and advanced cases in the country
as well as overseas, which are essential for the national government and local governments
to draft sports policy and for various organizations to plan sports promotion programs. SSF
proactively makes proposals for policies to governments and for plans to sports
organizations, based on evidence obtained from the research and survey.
SSF promotes a nationwide sport program, which aims to encourage people toparticipate in sports and physical activities, called Challenge Day. In this program, municipal
communities with similar size of populations compete over the percentage of their residents
who did some kind of sports and physical activities for a minimum of fifteen minutes on thelast Wednesday of May. Through Challenge Day, SSF is able to forge closer links with local
governments and other organizations, and to verify that sports are beneficial in building
local communities and promoting relationships between people of different generations, andto propose a system in which individual residents can enjoy sports in their communities.
Furthermore, in collaboration with local governments who participate in Challenge Day
and with other local governments nationwide, SSF draws up sports promotion plans for
local communities and offers the results of its surveys and research.
SSF disseminates the information about its initiatives as described above, and releases
the latest sports information in the country and overseas that is beneficial for sports policy
research, using its official website, social media, at symposiums, seminars, and international
conferences.
As part of its public relations activities, SSF publishes the results of the National Sport
and Lifestyle Survey, which is biannually conducted to understand the state of participationand involvement in sports by Japanese, by means of a report called the SSF NationalSports-Life Survey.
SSF also brings out and extensively distributes Sport White Paper, in which the latest
data in the country and overseas is printed.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary
Date
Produced by
Published byPrinted by
Cover Designed by

16 The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

31 Dec. 2019
Kazutoshi Watanabe
Sasakawa Sports Foundation
1-2-2 Akasaka Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052 Japan
Phone +81-3-6229-5300
Fax +81-3-6229-5340
URL http://www.ssf.or.jp/ Email data@ssf.or.jp
Nihon Publicity Co.,Ltd.
Junko Fukuchi©Sasakawa Sports Foundation, 2019 Printed in Japan

About SSF
Outline of Activities

1

Research and surveys

2

Collaboration with local governments

3

Public relations

The Institute of Sports Policy, established in SSF carries out fact-finding surveys, casestudies and empirical research in the three fields of "sports policy","community-building
through sports" and "promotion of sports among children and youth".
The institute gathers and analyses quantitative data and advanced cases in the country
as well as overseas, which are essential for the national government and local governments
to draft sports policy and for various organizations to plan sports promotion programs. SSF
proactively makes proposals for policies to governments and for plans to sports
organizations, based on evidence obtained from the research and survey.
SSF promotes a nationwide sport program, which aims to encourage people toparticipate in sports and physical activities, called Challenge Day. In this program, municipal
communities with similar size of populations compete over the percentage of their residents
who did some kind of sports and physical activities for a minimum of fifteen minutes on thelast Wednesday of May. Through Challenge Day, SSF is able to forge closer links with local
governments and other organizations, and to verify that sports are beneficial in building
local communities and promoting relationships between people of different generations, andto propose a system in which individual residents can enjoy sports in their communities.
Furthermore, in collaboration with local governments who participate in Challenge Day
and with other local governments nationwide, SSF draws up sports promotion plans for
local communities and offers the results of its surveys and research.
SSF disseminates the information about its initiatives as described above, and releases
the latest sports information in the country and overseas that is beneficial for sports policy
research, using its official website, social media, at symposiums, seminars, and international
conferences.
As part of its public relations activities, SSF publishes the results of the National Sport
and Lifestyle Survey, which is biannually conducted to understand the state of participationand involvement in sports by Japanese, by means of a report called the SSF NationalSports-Life Survey.
SSF also brings out and extensively distributes Sport White Paper, in which the latest
data in the country and overseas is printed.

The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary
Date
Produced by
Published byPrinted by
Cover Designed by

16 The 2019 SSF National Sports-Life Survey of Children and Young People Executive Summary

31 Dec. 2019
Kazutoshi Watanabe
Sasakawa Sports Foundation
1-2-2 Akasaka Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052 Japan
Phone +81-3-6229-5300
Fax +81-3-6229-5340
URL http://www.ssf.or.jp/ Email data@ssf.or.jp
Nihon Publicity Co.,Ltd.
Junko Fukuchi©Sasakawa Sports Foundation, 2019 Printed in Japan