What about sport? A public health perspective on leisure-time physical activity |
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| Institution: | 1. Sport and Leisure Management Program, Department of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Memphis, Elma Roane Fieldhouse 106, Memphis, TN 38152, United States;2. Sport Management Program, Department of Kinesiology, East Carolina University, A-21 Minges Coliseum, Greenville, NC 27858, United States;3. Physical Activity Promotion Program, Department of Kinesiology, East Carolina University, 172 Minges Coliseum, Greenville, NC 27858, United States;1. Centre for Tourism and Leisure Management, School of Management, UniSA Business School, University of South Australia, City West, Adelaide, South Australia 5001, Australia;2. Adnan Kassar School of Business, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon;1. University of Regina, Canada;2. University of Otago, New Zealand;1. Interdisciplinary Educational Research Institute, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Wollongong, Australia;2. Centre for Health Initiatives, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Wollongong, Australia;1. University of Illinois, Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism, Huff Hall 104, MC-584, Champaign, IL 61820, USA;2. Springfield College, Sport and Recreation Management, 121 Blake Hall, 263 Alden Street, Springfield, MA 01109, USA;3. Texas A&M University, Department of Health and Kinesiology, 4243 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843, USA;4. Texas Tech University, Health, Exercise and Sport Sciences, MS 3011, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA |
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| Abstract: | In an effort to determine how sport could be better positioned on the public health agenda, three community physical activity programs aimed at combating obesity were examined to determine the benefits residents seek through their participation. Using a case study approach and critical framework, assumptions and presumed knowledge of these public health programs were drawn out through site visits and interviews. A total of 42 interviews with community leaders, program organizers, and residents in each community were conducted. The results reveal that new approaches need to be considered for promoting greater levels of participation in U.S. community sport and other leisure-time physical activity programs. Instead of the commonly emphasized benefits of physical health or appearance, the results demonstrate that hedonic rewards and opportunities for social interaction are two overlooked, yet primary benefits sought by participants. This research suggests that concerted efforts to focus on the hedonic feelings and social aspects can potentially lead to increased sport participation and holistic health. Such an approach may help better address vital public health policy issues while demonstrating the distinctiveness and utility of sport. |
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| Keywords: | Community Sport policy Public policy Physical activity Sport development |
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