Introduction. Involving the population in mass sports is driven by the implementation of the state's strategic goals: the state policy of the Russian Federation is focused on increasing the proportion of citizens systematically engaged in physical activity [1].

The aim of the research is to conduct a comparative analysis of programs for involving the population in mass sports.

Methods and organization of the research. An analysis of the following programs was carried out: "Implementation of the model for involving the population in systematic physical culture and sports activities at the place of residence (Voronezh Region)", "Youth of the city of Arzamas in the 21st century", and the physical culture and sports-oriented programs at the citizens' place of residence "Territory of Health" (Lipetsk Region).

Results and discussion. The results of the comparative analysis made it possible to systematize and characterize the main provisions of the programs for involving the population in mass sports in the Voronezh Region, Lipetsk Region, and Arzamas.
The comparative analysis revealed different strategies. The Voronezh Region focuses on a variety of sports (correlation with involvement r=0.98), multi-channel financing (budget + grants + sponsors), and a well-developed staffing system ("Courtyard Coach"). Sports coverage is 58.6% (target for 2030 – 70%).
Arzamas implements a comprehensive youth policy, where sports are one of the tools for socialization and prevention. Financing is solely from the local budget, and staffing depends on subordinate institutions. Coverage is 58% (target 61.5%).
The Lipetsk Region focuses on the systematic nature and the integration of sports with leisure; financing is through the municipal budget, and staffing consists of educator-organizers and instructors. Coverage is the highest – 63% (target 70%).
Thus, it can be stated that the program of the Voronezh Region is based on a variety of sports and interdepartmental interaction. The program of the city of Arzamas integrates mass sports into the general structure of municipal youth policy with clear financial planning. The program in the Lipetsk Region allows for building systematic, meaningful, and diverse work with the population at the place of residence, relying on its material and technical base, personnel potential, and a variety of leisure activities.

Conclusions. The results of the analysis of regional programs for involving citizens in sports in Arzamas, the Voronezh and Lipetsk regions showed that the total proportion of citizens systematically engaged in sports is increasing every year. The greatest success in involving the population in sports has been achieved by the "Territory of Health" program of the Lipetsk Region; it is advisable to adapt it in other regions. 

References

1. Ofitsialnyy sayt proekta «Sport – norma zhizni» [Official website of the "Sport – Norm of Life" project]. URL: https://norma-sport.ru.

No. 7, pp. 78–78

Received: 17.04.2026 | Published: 26.06.2026

CC BY 4.0