England rugby captain Maro Itoje has launched the Give2Move campaign, urging Britons to donate their unused trainers to help more people become active. Research reveals that over 114 million pairs of trainers are sitting idle in households across the UK, with many never worn or gathering dust.
Trainer Waste in UK Households
A survey of 2,000 people found that the average Briton owns five pairs of trainers, but nearly a third (30%) admit they have pairs still in their original packaging that they will never use. The typical household possesses 10 pairs, spending approximately £66 per pair. Over half (53%) keep trainers in good condition, while 47% hold onto them 'just in case', leaving millions unused.
Uncertainty about suitability for reuse is the main reason trainers are not donated (30%), while 21% have never considered donating. One in nine (11%) do not know how or where to donate. Sheffield and Belfast are the unused trainer capitals, with over three pairs per person gathering dust. Young adults aged 18-24 are most likely to lose interest (41%), while those aged 45-54 hoard the most (three pairs). On average, Brits develop trainer fatigue after 15 months and buy new ones.
Barriers to Physical Activity
Half of Britons (50%) say they have struggled to afford trainers, and 35% say the cost has affected their ability to exercise. The gap in physical activity between the most and least deprived communities continues to widen. Give2Move aims to collect 1 million pairs over five years to help more people get active.
Most Brits keep trainers because they might wear them again (49%) or because they remain in good condition (42%). Convenient drop-off points (47%) and environmental benefits (28%) would encourage donations. Currently, 39% donate used trainers to charity, 18% recycle them, and 16% sell them online.
Campaign Launch
Maro Itoje kicked off Give2Move at Battersea Park Run, stating: "Staying active should be accessible to everyone, but not having the right kit can be a barrier. I know firsthand how important activity is for mental and physical health. Give2Move ensures no one can say trainers are why they are not moving more."
Dr Milly Marshall, Medical Advisor at Vitality, added: "Regular physical activity reduces chronic disease risk and supports mental wellbeing. Not having trainers can be a genuine barrier. Give2Move helps remove that barrier and makes activity more accessible."
How to Donate
Vitality has partnered with Shoe Aid and JogOn for Give2Move. Collection points will be set up at Vitality Partners nationwide, with details announced on Vitality.co.uk. For more information, visit the Give2Move website.
