The impact of the London Olympic Games 2012 on physical activity, general health status, well–being and national identity: A quantitative survey based in Stratford, 2011 and 2012

Abstract

AimsPoliticians and journalists have made many claims about the impact of the London Olympic Games 2012. The present study aimed to explore the impact of the Games on physical activity, general health status, well–being and national identity.MethodA survey was conducted in Stratford, London at two time points: October 2011 (N=366) and October 2012 (N=406).ResultsThe results showed no differences in actual or intended physical activity levels or positive mood from before to after the Games. In contrast to predictions, however, participants after the Games reported greater negative mood and lower perceived health status. In addition, although no overall changes in national identity were found, more Black participants reported that being British was important to them after the Games (77.8 per cent) compared to before (55.7 per cent).ConclusionThere was no evidence for the predicted increase in physical activity, health status or well–being after the Games. In fact, after a year both mood and perceived health status were lower than before. Black people, however, showed a stronger allegiance to their British national identity after the Games compared to before. The London Olympic Games 2012 appears not to have had the predicted positive impact on some aspects of health by one year. Perhaps, however, the multicultural mix of Team GB has had a positive impact of the sense of national identity on the multicultural population of Stratford.