Sport

Sport

The price of gym membership in 52 countries, mapped

Gym workouts have been off the cards since the pandemic hit, but that’s due to change as vaccination roll-out hits its stride. In the United Kingdom, membership of The Gym Group rose by 33 percent, from 547 thousand to 729 thousand in the first months of 2021. And consulting company McKinsey prognosticates a 5-10% yearly increase in the wellness business just because we have become more conscious of the delicacy of our well-being.

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Sport

The Geography of Soccer Success: A World Cup Story

A striking pattern emerges when looking at the world map of FIFA World Cup achievements – all champion nations share borders, creating a unique “corridor of excellence” in soccer. From South America’s powerhouses Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay, across the Atlantic to European champions Spain, France, England, Germany, and Italy, this geographic connection reveals fascinating insights into how soccer excellence develops and spreads between neighboring countries. As of 2024, only eight nations have claimed soccer’s most prestigious trophy, with Brazil leading the pack with five titles. What makes these particular countries so successful in the World Cup? The answer lies in a complex mix of cultural exchange, historical development, and economic factors that have shaped the beautiful game across these regions. Dive into this analysis of soccer’s geographic patterns and discover the surprising connections between location and World Cup success…

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