Riyadh Survey: Half of Residents Exercise Weekly

Oct 30, 2026•2 min read

A new survey of 1,000 Riyadh residents has shed light on how people in the capital approach fitness, revealing that while nearly half exercise regularly, most feel they are not moving enough. The findings come as the city expands its 135-km Sports Boulevard corridor.

49% of residents exercise at least twice a week. Yet 76% said they do not get enough physical activity, and 46% wished they could work out more often. The most common barriers were lack of time (45%), unfavorable weather (39%), and the cost of gym memberships (36%). Only 11% of respondents lived within one kilometer of a sports facility.

Walking was by far the most popular activity at 63%, followed by running at 47% and football at 44%. Around 36% used gyms and 24% cycled. When asked about motivation, 74% pointed to improving physical health and 53% to boosting mental health.

How the Sports Boulevard helps

The Sports Boulevard addresses several of these barriers directly. Currently available sections are open 24 hours a day with free entry, and no booking is required except for selected areas or special events. The cycle and leisure paths each run 2.4 km at present and are planned to extend as additional districts open along the full 135-km corridor.

For those seeking outdoor options, Sands Sports Park operates from 4:00 AM to 10:00 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM, offering early-morning and evening windows that help residents avoid the midday heat.

With time and cost cited as leading obstacles, the free, round-the-clock access and growing network of walking and cycling paths could make it easier for Riyadh residents to build regular activity into their routines.

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