A recent American report from ASD has shown that snowboarding is still the fastest-growing sport in the States.

According to the study, the number of people who went snowboarding increased 51% in 2000 compared to 1999, with over 7.2 million enjoying the sport. Although skiing had over twice as many participants (14.7 million) this figure increased by only 6%. .

Following just behind snowboarding in growth was skateboarding, which had a gain of 49% and wakeboarding (up 32%).

Team sports didn’t fare as well. Baseball, basketball, touch football and volleyball all saw a decline in participation.

According to American Sports Data President Harvey Lauer, “Traditional team sports reflect traditional values: cooperation, teamwork and character. The new extreme sports have a diametrically opposite set of values including fierce individualism, alienation, defiance and inwardly focused aggression.”

Mmm...so don't beat around the bush Harvey, what are you trying to say there?

The Ten Fastest Growing Sports

1. Snowboarding -- 7.1m -- Up 51%
2. Skateboarding -- 11.6m -- Up 49%
3. Wakeboarding --3.5m -- Up 32%
4. Snowmobiling -- 7m -- Up 28%
5. Gymnastics -- 6.7m -- Up 27%
6. Artificial Wall Climbing -- 6.1m -- Up 27%
7. Surfing -- 2.2m -- Up 25%
8. Elliptical motion trainers -- 6.2m -- Up 21%
9. Softball -- 3.8m -- Up 18%
10. Snowshoeing -- 2m -- Up 18%.

[PS Does anyone know what Elliptical motion trainers are?]

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