Survey: Economy keeps Americans focused on low-cost sports like running, yoga, kickboxing

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Cash-strapped Americans still seek athletic value

A survey shows Americans are still looking for value when they exercise, choosing pursuits like running, yoga and kickboxing — three sports that don’t require much equipment.

The Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association released its annual participation overview Monday and reported that running enjoyed a 6.7 percent increase in 2009. Tennis remained popular, as did yoga and kickboxing.

Only 4.5 percent of Americans surveyed who call themselves active said they spent more on sports, fitness and recreation in 2009 over 2008. More than 25 percent said they spent considerably less.