Every year, the European Week of Sport takes place from 23 to 30 September, encouraging people across Europe to embrace a more active lifestyle. This year’s campaign highlights that physical activity can take many forms and should fit each person’s circumstances. Whether you walk, cycle, run, swim or simply play, standards help make physical activity safer and more enjoyable.
Even during a simple walk outside, you can discover that standards are everywhere. EN 13201-2:2015 sets performance requirements for road lighting, helping pedestrians see and be seen in urban areas, which is especially important during the darker months. EN 12368:2024 helps make road crossings safer by setting requirements for traffic signal heads, while EN 13036-3:2002 supports safer mobility by helping to evaluate how well pavements and pathways drain water, helping reduce puddles and slippery conditions for pedestrians and cyclists.
Cycling is another great way to stay active, whether for fun, commuting, or running errands. The EN ISO 4210 series addresses bicycle safety, including requirements related to braking, steering, wheels, pedals and saddles. Focusing more on the functional properties of bikes, EN ISO 11243:2023 sets the requirements for luggage carriers that can be attached to bikes. Electric bikes are covered by EN 15194:2017+A1:2023, while CEN/TS 17946:2023 supports helmet protection for users of electric bikes. For those who prefer to exercise indoors, EN ISO 20957-10:2017 makes sure stationary exercise bikes are safe to use.
Running is one of the simplest forms of exercise, and standards can help enhance the experience. EN 17534:2022 helps ensure you stay comfortable during exercise by setting requirements for the sweat management properties of textiles. Appropriate footwear is crucial for running, and EN 12801:2000 helps assess the performance of footwear during strenuous exercise over an extended period. For tech enthusiasts who want to monitor their progress, EN IEC 63203-402-3:2024 addresses the performance of wearable devices that measure heart rate while EN IEC 63203-402-2:2024 covers step counting.
If you are more drawn to water, EN 13138-1:2021 ensures everyone can enjoy safe swimming, from the very first lessons, by setting requirements for buoyancy aids. For those looking for a bit more adventure in the water, EN 13451-10:2018 covers the safety of diving platforms and springboards.
Standards are always important, but especially so when it comes to extreme hobbies. Paragliders can take to the sky knowing that standards support the safety of their paraglider, helmet and emergency parachute. For those that also want great views but prefer to keep their feet closer to the ground, EN 958:2024 sets safety requirements and test methods for energy-absorbing systems used in via ferrata climbing.
In the spirit of this year's Week of Sport, every kind of movement should be celebrated - including activities that are simply good fun. EN 71-14:2025 sets safety requirements for trampolines intended for domestic use. Standards also help children safely enjoy playground equipment such as slides, swings and carousels.
Staying active brings immense benefits, both physical and mental. No matter what type of exercise fits your lifestyle or circumstances best, it is important to get moving, in big or small ways. And it's a relief to know that even if we fall, standards are there to help catch us.
