Why Sports 2026: Sports, Health and Well-being – A Nation’s Progress.
- Why Sports
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Ten years on, the journey continues.
In March 2026, the Why Sports Conference returns to London with a powerful message: Sports, Health and Well-being – A Nation’s Progress. Once again, the event will bring together sport, physical activity and healthcare professionals from across the UK to reflect on the past, share the latest strategic updates, and shape the future of an active nation.
This year’s conference is particularly special. It marks 10 years of Why Sports, a decade of delivering progressive, sector-led conferences that tackle inactivity, inspire collaboration, and drive meaningful change. It also coincides with the 10th anniversary of Sporting Future: A New Strategy for an Active Nation – a landmark policy that reshaped the way the UK viewed sport and physical activity.
A Decade of Change
Launched in 2015 by then Sports Minister Tracey Crouch, Sporting Future shifted the focus away from medals and participation numbers, placing physical well-being, mental well-being, individual development, social and community development, and economic growth at the heart of the strategy.
As Crouch stated at the time:
“Sport is not just about winning medals – it has the power to transform lives, improve health, and strengthen communities.”
Led by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), and supported by passionate organisations across the sector, the strategy recognised what many already knew: sport and physical activity are powerful tools for positive social change.
And for a time, that momentum was undeniable.
Progress – and the Roadblocks Ahead
Over the past decade, the strategy helped unlock new ways of working, encouraged cross-sector collaboration, and placed well-being firmly on the national agenda. But while progress has been made, the challenges remain stark.
Barriers to activity still exist.
Health inequalities continue to grow.
Mental health concerns are rising.
Funding pressures remain relentless.
Many organisations working on the front line of physical activity and well-being are still operating with “one hand tied behind their backs.”
At Why Sports, we believe that a sedentary lifestyle remains one of the greatest challenges facing our nation – and the global community. Tackling inactivity is not just a sports issue; it’s a public health priority.
Why Sports 2026: Looking Forward, Together.
The Why Sports 2026 Conference will celebrate the achievements of past and present strategies from Sport England, central government, and local authorities – while focusing firmly on the opportunities of now and the immediate future.
Expert speakers will once again deliver rich, insightful content designed to:
Improve sector knowledge
Share practical solutions
Inspire action
Strengthen collaboration
Without the commitment and tireless efforts of professionals across sport, health, education, and local communities, progress would stall. We thank every speaker, partner, and delegate who continues to stand up for an active, healthier UK.
Key Themes for 2026
This year’s conference will explore:
Tackling inactivity and sedentary behaviour.
Reducing health inequalities.
Mental health and wellbeing through movement.
The role of policy and funding.
Community-led solutions.
Workforce development and leadership.
Collaboration between sport and healthcare.
Featured Speakers
Why Sports 2026 will welcome a strong line-up of influential voices from across the sector, including:
Senior representatives from Sport England
Leaders from the central and local government
Global sports brands
Experts in public health and well-being
National Governing Body executives
Community sport pioneers
Healthcare and physical activity professionals
Each will bring practical insight, real-world experience, and a shared commitment to improving the nation’s health through movement.
A Legacy of Collaboration.
A lot has changed since Sporting Future was published. But one thing remains constant: collaboration is key.
Why Sports is proud to continue working with the best and brightest in the sector to build a lasting legacy — one that supports healthier lifestyles, stronger communities, and a more active future for all.
Together, physical activity and healthcare professionals are helping to create a happier, healthier nation — and Why Sports is honoured to be part of that journey.
Limited Spaces Remaining.
With strong demand from across the sector, only a limited number of delegate spaces remain for the Why Sports 2026 Conference.
If you are passionate about improving the nation’s health, shaping future strategies, and connecting with like-minded professionals, this is an event not to be missed.
Join us on the 12th of March 2026, at The Royal College of Surgeons, and be part of the next chapter in the story of sport, health, and well-being in the UK.
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