The Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA) participated in the Global Running Conference in Copenhagen, where Ms. Alanood AlOthaimeen, Executive Director of Strategy, presented “Driving National Participation in Physical Activity”.
SFA’s participation in the conference provides an opportunity to exchange knowledge with international experts, better understand runners’ behavior, and stay informed on global trends and developments in road running. These insights help shape physical activity programs and opportunities across the Kingdom and support SFA’s long-term vision of becoming a global leader in sports for all.
During the presentation, Ms. Alanood AlOthaimeen discussed SFA’s approach to increasing physical activity across Saudi Arabia by activating sports facilities and public spaces, creating environments where movement is practical, and providing different ways for people to participate based on their needs and preferences.
She also discussed how people engage in physical activity differently. Some prefer running or walking, while others enjoy competition or participate through virtual step challenges with colleagues, friends or family. Understanding these differences is important to encourage more people to be physically active.
SFA also uses surveys to better understand participation preferences and barriers. SFA’s national survey results show that 77% are interested in being more physically active, highlighting the need to continue providing different opportunities for people to participate.
Ms. Alanood AlOthaimeen noted that SFA’s role is to use these insights to create more opportunities for people to be active across the Kingdom, through programs and spaces that meet different needs and preferences.
