Abstract
This study examines the gender differences in the enjoyment of recreational sports participation among Taiwanese adults. Data were obtained using the 2007 Taiwan Social Change Survey. The questionnaire included a topical module of the International Social Survey Program regarding leisure time and sports. Results showed that male subjects were more likely to participate in recreational sports to improve their appearance and on account of their personal interest. In addition to these factors, female subjects also experienced greater motivation to participate when Taiwanese athletes performed well in international sporting competitions. This study confirmed that the factors influencing enjoyment of recreational sports participation differ among men and women. These results can be used to better inform public health professionals and other regulatory organizations formulating physical activity intervention strategies.
Highlights
Recreational sports are an important aspect of leisure activities that help relieve daily work stress.Recreational sports have a significant influence on human physiology and psychology
Leisure Time and Sports Questionnaire (LTSQ) design was based on social change trends in Taiwan and included the International Social Survey Program (ISSP) core questions, as well as topics regarding the current status of leisure life in Taiwan [14]
This study examined the between-gender differences in factors motivating recreational sports participation among adults in Taiwan
Summary
Recreational sports are an important aspect of leisure activities that help relieve daily work stress. Interaction between social groups through leisure activities promotes physical and mental health, but can reduce psychological pressure. It is difficult to discern which factors should be targeted by public health campaigns seeking to motivate recreational sports participation, as previous studies investigating this relationship primarily concentrated on specific regions, age groups or sports [6,7,8,9,10]. Girls and boys are both reported to be interested in recreational sports participation for physical and mental health, personal interest and physical appearance. They both enjoy participating in recreational activities [4,7]. In behavioral factors and socioeconomic status that influence recreational sports participation and interests between genders
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