Almost half a million adults play tennis weekly in England. Photo by Getty Images
The latest Active People Survey results show an increase in weekly and monthly (16+) participation in tennis in England.
Weekly tennis participation is up to 417,700 which is an 11% increase whilst monthly tennis participation has risen to 778,900, a 12% increase. This is the first increase in weekly participation in two years.
Roger Draper, LTA Chief Executive, said: "We are pleased that the latest APS results show an increase in the number of people playing tennis regularly. However, we recognise that it is only one six monthly measurement, and that we need to remain focused on growing adult tennis participation, which is a key priority.
"Through our allplay campaign and cardio tennis we are highlighting how tennis is a fun, family friendly sport and a great way to get fit. We are working closely with Sport England to better understand how to encourage those involved in the sport to keep playing and playing more regularly, as well as encouraging new people to take up tennis."
The biggest increase in participation is among those aged 35+, by 14,000 (11% increase). There has also been increase in participation amongst females to 177,400 a (20% increase).
On disability, participation is 24,200 up from 20,900 (15% increase) and 16 – 19 years old participation is 60,900 up from 53,600 (14% increase).
The figures are from the 6 month results for Active People Survey 6 (APS6) and cover the year April 2011/ 2012.