Belatra survey: iGaming pros pick gaming, gym and reading as top hobbies

Belatra Games has published results from an international survey on iGaming professionals’ hobbies ahead of SBC Summit Lisbon 2026. The poll was conducted with G&M News from 3 to 12 August, and asked respondents what they do outside work, what they want to try next, and which unusual interests they have pursued.

Video gaming was the most frequently cited current hobby, followed by reading, strength training and the gym. Hiking, board games and specialty coffee tasting also ranked among commonly mentioned activities.

For activities respondents want to try, padel ranked first, appearing in 14.8% of responses, ahead of golf (11.4%) and dancing (9.6%). Away from sport, 3D printing was the most popular new activity people said they would like to explore.

The survey also surfaced niche interests including collecting Star Wars memorabilia, antiques and perfumes, as well as beekeeping, vibe-coding, harness dancing, historical reconstruction and creating board games. On motivation, 46.7% said hobbies help them relieve stress and recharge, 34.4% pointed to the benefits of physical activity, and 17.8% said hobbies help them disconnect from work.

Belatra said the research informed its planned “Belatra Adventure Club” booth concept for SBC Summit Lisbon 2026, themed around “The Guy”, a recurring character from Blast the Bass, Ice Bass and Hunt the Bucks. The company also said a fourth title featuring the character will be released ahead of SBC Summit Lisbon.