The results of a survey detailing public participation in cultural, leisure and sporting activities between 2006-7 have been released by the DCMS.

More than 24,000 adults took part in the second Taking Part survey, which started in July 2005 to provide in-depth analysis of engagement across each cultural and sporting sector.

The survey was commissioned by the DCMS in partnership with a number of public bodies, including Arts Council England and Sport England.

Overall results between 2006-7 remained consistent when compared with the findings from 2005-6, with 40 per cent of adults saying they had participated in moderate intensity sport for at least half an hour within the past week.

Swimming and going to the gym were found to be the most popular activities, while there was a significant year-on-year increase for both football, cross-country and road running. The results also reported a 1 per cent increase in participation by men.

The survey also revealed that 47 per cent of those who had not participated in active sport for at least a year cited poor health as the reason, while 18 per cent said a lack of time stopped them from participating.