America's seniors are getting in tip-top shape, so they can enjoy the great outdoors. According to SGMA International's recent analysis of the Superstudy® of Sports Participation (conducted by American Sports Data), 13 out of the top 15 most popular sports/athletic activities for seniors are fitness and/or outdoor pursuits. (This information is derived from the SGMA Superstudy of Sports Participation Volumes I, II and III [2004 edition].)

Most Popular Sports for
U.S. Seniors
Based on “Frequent” Participation
(Age 55+ and older)
Activity

Year 2003
1. Fitness Walking
– 100+ days/year
6,277,000
2. Stretching –
100+ days/year
4,011,000
3. Treadmill
Exercise – 100+ days/year
3,059,000
4. Golf – 25+
days/year
2,966,000
5. Fishing
(Freshwater/Other) – 15+ days/year
2,625,000
6. Recreational
Vehicle Camping – 15+ days/year
2,189,000
7. Free Weights:
Hand Weights – 100+ days/year
1,735,000
8. Bowling – 25+
days/year
1,647,000
9.
Weight/Resistance Machines – 100+ days/year
1,493,000
10. Day Hiking – 15+
days/year
1,414,000
11. Calisthenics –
100+ days/year
1,161,000
12. Fishing
(Saltwater) – 15+ days/year
1,147,000
13. Free Weights:
Dumbbells – 100+ days/year
1,040,000
14. Stationary
Cycling: Upright Bike (Regular) – 100+ days/year
1,031,000
15. Hunting
(Shotgun/Rifle) – 15+ days/year
960,000