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Europe: Sweden, a country addicted to sport
Every Thursday until the European elections, 13 Heures looks at the habits of our European neighbors. Sweden is the European sports champion. 91% of Swedes exercise at least once a week.
(France 2)
Every Thursday until the European elections, 13 Heures looks at the habits of our European neighbors. Sweden is the European sports champion. 91% of Swedes exercise at least once a week.
In Sweden, 91% of residents practice sport at least once a week. Their first connection to sport comes very early. A gym class is reserved for young mothers, with exercises adapted to postpartum and a reduced noise level for babies. This enthusiasm dates back to a demonstration in 1978. Students demanded more gymnasiums and sports fields.
Sport accessible to all
Since then, Sweden has implemented an active sports policy. In 2016, the government banned the ranking of teams for children under 13. The goal is to avoid disgusting young people who might take more time to develop their abilities. For example, the champion Zlatan Ibrahimović was revealed at 16 years old. For eight years, the clubs have been full and have never had so many members. In Sweden, gyms are cheap and open 24 hours a day. Companies can give their employees 500 euros per year to help them finance a sporting activity. Accessibility, key to a nation addicted to sport.
