British Heart Foundation encourages people to sign up to bike ride with staggering statistics

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is urging people in Plymouth to turn from spectator to sportsperson this summer, as new figures show that the average resident spends nearly 18 more hours watching sport than getting active every year.

The heart research charity has released the statistics to encourage people to sign up to its iconic London to Brighton bike ride on Sunday 17 June.

The BHF discovered that residents spend an estimated 91 hours watching and listening to sport each year, the equivalent of 48 million hours across the city. This is compared to an average of 73 hours a year per person, or 38 million hours taking part in sporting activities.

Elizabeth Tack, Event Lead for the BHF’s London to Brighton Bike Ride, said; “Our infatuation with sport is clear to see, but breaking a sweat is clearly the less-preferred option, with participation taking a back seat to watching and listening to sport.

Don’t just cheer your favourite athlete on from the side line or in front of a screen – get involved yourself and be a part of an inspiring and fun-filled day out for all the family.”

The BHF’s London to Brighton Bike Ride has taken place for over 40 years and is Europe’s oldest charity cycling event. People of all abilities can take part, from the fast to the fall behinds and the solo riders to the team players, everyone is welcome.

To sign up this year’s bike ride visit here: bhf.org.uk/l2bbr