The year 2023 saw a record 175.8 million participants in outdoor recreation, representing 57.3% of the U.S. population, according to the 2024 Outdoor Participation Trends Report from the Outdoor Foundation (OF) and Outdoor Industry Association (OIA).

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has released its annual drowning and submersion report. 

The U.S. youth camp industry contributes $70 billion to the national economy, accounting for the total value of the camp industry's production and its ripple effects, which include business-to-business purchases and labor income, according to a study from the University of Michigan and the American Camp Association. 

Trust for Public Land announced that Washington, D.C., was rated the nation’s best big-city park system by the 2024 ParkScore index. The ParkScore index evaluates park systems in the 100 largest U.S. cities. Minneapolis took second place, and St. Paul, Minn., ranked third, while Irvine, Calif., matched its highest-ever ranking to finish in fourth place.

The 55,294 health club and studio locations in the U.S. have a $22.4 billion economic impact on the country’s economy, according to new data analysis prepared by the Health & Fitness Association (formerly IHRSA).

State, local and tribal governments can apply for up to $3 million in grant funding available through the Pool Safely Grant Program, through the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). 

A new report from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) reveals the importance of social connection through older adult programming in parks and recreation.

It’s May, which means it’s time for National Water Safety Month, an annual awareness campaign coordinated by the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, the American Red Cross, the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA), the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the World Waterpark Association (WWA).

Around 80% of U.S. adults and teens are not sufficiently active, according to a recent study published in JAMA. And physical inactivity is the fourth leading risk factor for mortality, as reported by the World Health Organization. In response, the American Council on Exercise (ACE) has added a new course, Mindful Movement: Coaching Clients to Become More Active, which aims to empower health coaches to combat physical activity and inspire their clients to lead healthier, more active lives. 

On Monday, April 15, at Sandstone Ridge Park in North Las Vegas, the U.S. Soccer Foundation opened its 700th mini-pitch—a significant milestone in the organization's goal of creating 1,000 new mini-pitches on the road to the FIFA World Cup 26. The mini-pitch was opened in partnership with soccer legend, NBC sports analyst, and former USMNT Goalkeeper Tim Howard and the City of North Las Vegas.