Physical Activity and Participation Factors

Learning Goals & Success Criteria

• Describe factors influencing participation in physical activity and sport (e.g., personal, social, economic).
• Analyze how these factors vary across different populations.
• Analyze the role of social and cultural factors in determining access to physical activity and sports programs.
• Describe the benefits of school and community physical activity and sports programs for individuals (e.g., physical health, mental well-being).
• Analyze broader societal benefits, such as community cohesion and improved public health.

Influencing Factors

• Built Environment: Availability of sports facilities, safe outdoor spaces, urban planning, proximity to recreation areas, transportation to sports facilities, adaptive equipment for disabilities, inclusive sports programs, language barriers in instructions.
• Personal Perception of Physical Activity: Individual attitudes towards exercise, intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation, past experiences with sports, understanding and confidence of movement skills, personal goals and aspirations, perceived benefits and drawbacks, understanding health information, making informed health decisions, awareness of health benefits of exercise, knowledge of nutrition and wellness.
• Demographics: Age distribution in communities (e.g., daycare, youth, elderly), gender representation in sports, socioeconomic factors (e.g., income, education, employment, access), cultural diversity (e.g., specific sports or activities, beliefs about participation in certain sports), racial stereotypes.
• Technology: Fitness apps and wearables (tracking progress, personalized workouts), online workout platforms (access to information, social connection), sports analytics tools (analyzing specific skills, generating goals).
• Social Media & Trends: Popularity of specific sports, fitness fads and crazes (e.g., #30DayChallenge, TikTok dances), emphasis on health and wellness (body positivity, holistic challenges), work-life balance trends, sports coverage in news, representation in movies/TV, advertising of sports products.
• Role Models: Influence of professional athletes, local sports heroes, coaches and mentors, peer influence, parental attitudes towards sports and exercise, family traditions in sports participation, importance of role models from diverse backgrounds.
• Environmental Conditions: Climate and weather patterns, air quality and pollution levels, seasonal variations, natural disasters and their impact.
• Social & Cultural Norms: Cultural attitudes towards sports (e.g., daily activity, social celebrations), workplace promotion of health & wellness, family values & traditions, community expectations.
• Time Constraints: Work/school commitments, other extra curricular activities, family responsibilities, commute times, leisure time availability.
• Sex and Gender: Historical disparities in sports opportunities, ongoing challenges in equal funding and media coverage, gender stereotypes in certain sports.
• Language Barriers: Challenges for non-native speakers in sports programs, availability of multilingual coaching and instruction, impact on participation in team sports, importance of inclusive communication in sports.

Benefits of Physical Activity & Sports Programs

• Physical Health: Improved cardiovascular fitness, enhanced muscular strength and endurance, better overall health and disease prevention, reduced risk of obesity, lower chances of developing type 2 diabetes, decreased risk of cardiovascular diseases, decreased risk of chronic diseases, reduced need for medical interventions, lower overall healthcare expenses.
• Mental Health: Reduced stress levels, improved mood and emotional well-being, higher self-esteem and confidence, physical activity as a stress outlet, learning relaxation techniques, improved emotional regulation.
• Cognitive Function: Enhanced focus and concentration, better academic performance, improved memory and learning capabilities, increased productivity, improved focus and energy levels, enhanced problem-solving skills.
• Social Skills: Increased interpersonal skills, enhanced teamwork and communication skills, development of leadership abilities, inclusion of individuals from diverse backgrounds, support networks through friendships and mentoring opportunities.
• Reduced Crime Rate: Positive outlet for energy and emotions, structured activities during high-risk hours, development of discipline and respect.
• Cultural Awareness: Exposure to various cultural practices through sports, increased tolerance and respect for diversity, global perspective on physical activities, reduced stereotyping, improved decision-making due to cultural understanding.