Delhi: Boxer Mary Kom and footballer Sunil Chhetri have come forward for a sports-friendly India after a Puma-Nielsen report found that children and adults in India lack motivation to take part in sports. According to a report prepared by Puma India and Nielsen Sports, India’s kids spend an average of 86 minutes of vigorous physical activity per week, compared to adults in India who engage in an average of 101 minutes of physical activity per week.
The report shows that there is a lack of motivation to pursue sports and fitness as a lifestyle in India. Lack of facilities and high cost are other challenges to engaging in sports activities, the report said. The report also found that adults who regularly participate in sports are 21% more likely to express optimism than others in general.
Mary Kom said sports and fitness activities are important for children’s well-being. Considering today’s busy life, I feel that sports should be a part of our daily life. Mary Kom said that her mission is to inspire and encourage every Indian to engage in at least one sport every day to stay fit.
Football player Sunil Chhetri said that the day maths, science, geography and sports are given equal importance in our curriculum, we will start seeing a change. Chhetri clarified that there is a limit to how much we can improve in sports with one PT period in a week and sports should be treated as a subject of study.
Chhetri further stated that sports will help you to have a better life in all spheres, even if it is nothing more in character formation of children and a serious career opportunity. Chhetri said that taking up a sport is not just to win but also to compete and stay fit, so just play and it teaches you lessons that no textbook will ever teach you.
PUMA-Nielsen surveyed 4280 people aged 18-65 (including parents of children aged 6-18) across 16 cities in India. Under the new campaign, Puma has also released a video featuring Puma brand ambassadors Virat Kohli, MC Mary Kom, Sunil Chhetri, Avani Lekhara, Bhagwani Devi and other sportspersons reminding them about the importance of sports.
Last Updated Mar 28, 2023, 2:14 PM IST
