Factors Affecting Personal Participation in Sport and Tourism
Affluence
- People’s wealth impacts their participation in sports and leisure activities
- In HICs like the UK:
- Affluent UK individuals like those at London's Hurlingham Club enjoy elite sports facilities
- Golf's popularity among the wealthy is evident at exclusive clubs like Wentworth, known for substantial fees
- Wealthy Britons often visit luxury resorts such as Gleneagles and attend prestigious events like Wimbledon
- Demand for top-quality sports gear is seen in the popularity of premium brands like Burberry Sport and Stella McCartney's Adidas line
- Elite memberships, such as Soho House (a chain of membership-only clubs), reflect a desire for exclusive social and leisure environments in the UK
- Ownership of luxury assets like yachts is common among the UK's wealthy population, as seen in marinas like those in the Solent
Gender
- Around the world, the participation of women in sports and leisure activities is lower than that of men
- Women often spend more time on childcare and household tasks, restricting the time available for sports and leisure activities
- There may also be cultural factors which have led to lower participation by women
- Women in Saudi Arabia have previously experienced challenges to sports and leisure facilities
- Vision 2030 aims to boost women's participation in sports and leisure activities
- Women from Saudi Arabia participated in the Olympic Games for the first time in 2012
- Dedicated women's sports clubs have been established
- The Women's Football League, launched in 2020, provides national-level opportunities for women in football
- Women have received licences to participate in motorsports events
- Financial support and sponsorship for female athletes demonstrate the government's commitment to women's sports
- Sports for All launched a campaign to encourage more Saudi women to participate in sports
Stages in lifecycle
- Children and young people participate in sports more than those who are working full-time
- There has been an increase in leisure activities and sports for retired people over the age of 65 in wealthier countries
Personality
- Whether you are an introvert or extrovert may affect your participation in sports and leisure activities
- Introverts may want to do quiet activities such as running, whereas extroverts may be thrill seekers
Place of residence
- Physical factors may affect participation in sport
- Reliable snow is needed for skiing
- Plunging breakers are needed for surfing
- Healthy rivers and lakes for fishing
