Pace of modern life and families keeping people out of the gym

● Survey reveals exercise hotspots ● Women less likely to do sport

Scotland’s exercise blackspots have been unveiled with major differences between different parts of the country.

A lack of time and family commitments are among the reasons for people not taking part in sport, while almost half of women say they are self-conscious about going to the gym. Women are less likely to participate in sport than men in Scotland.

A shortage of facilities nearby has also been blamed prompting criticism that the Scottish Government is letting down Scotland’scommonwealth games legacy.

The study of more than 3,000 people by Holyrood’s health committee highlighted the percentage of non-participants in regular sport or physical activity based on postcode.

Aberdeen was the least active area in Scotland with statistics revealing that 35 per cent of respondents from the Granite City don’t participate in regular activity. This is 23 per cent behind leaders Falkirk. Kilmarnock was also well down the activity table, with 25 per cent of people in the area saying they don’t take part in sport.

Of the women who responded to the study, 25 per cent said they do not participate in sport, compared with 13 per cent of males who took part.

The participation rates of ethnic minorities is also below that of Scots who identify themselves as white.

More people would get involved in sport with the support of their employer through perks like a gym subsidy, as well as “taster” sessions at such facilities.

More flexible working arrangements could also help Scots more active according to the survey, as well as private changing facilities, particularly for women.

Scottish Conservative sport spokesman Brian Whittle said: “It’s sad that the SNP has failed to make the most of Glasgow’s Commonwealth Games’ potential to make Scotland a healthy and active nation for years to come.

There are of course various barriers preventing participation in regular activity – lack of time, money and self-confidence to name but a few.

“The SNP seems to only talk about making so many improvements. Now people are realising it has no idea how to address these issues.”

Walking is the most popular choice of sport among those who don’t participate but would like to, followed by swimming, keep fit/aerobics and cycling, according to the survey.