THE IMPACT OF GOVERNMENT POLITICAL DECISIONS ON ACCESS TO RECREATIONAL FACILITIES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND THE LEISURE PREFERENCES OF YOUNG PEOPLE

Abstract

Purpose. Determining the impact of government policy in the field of applicable restrictions on access to recreational facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic on leisure behaviours (on the example of physical activity and the use of social media) of young people attending secondary schools and higher education facilities in Kraków (Poland).Method. The main research method used in the research process was a diagnostic online targeted population survey using the questionnaire technique. The research was conducted between 29 January and 26 March 2021 on a sample of secondary school and university students in Kraków (with particular emphasis on students from the University of Physical Education in Kraków). The survey resulted in 1,714 correctly completed questionnaires. An auxiliary research method was using focus group interviews conducted via the Internet.Findings. Government policies regarding the restrictions introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic affected the leisure activities of young people. They were generally less physically active than prior to the pandemic. In addition, the restrictions affected the selected forms of physical activity in free time – young people preferred mainly walks and hiking. At the same time, most of the respondents indicated spending more time on social media than they did before the pandemic. They used it to maintain social contacts with family and friends, as well as for entertainment, educational and professional purposes.Research conclusions and limitations. The empirical research concerns only secondary school and university students from Kraków and covers only the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland.Practical implications. The results of the research can be used by decision-making institutions in the scope of introducing restrictions on the functioning of the State (e.g. the Ministry of Health), as they indicate consequences of specific restrictions. The article may also be helpful for institutions organising leisure time, such as the Society for the Promotion of Physical Culture, the Polish Scouting Association, sports and recreation centres or local cultural centres. It will enable them to adapt their offer to leisure behaviours preferred by young people during lockdowns.Originality. The study of leisure behaviours relates to the situation of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, making it novel and not previously studied or analysed.Type of paper. Article presenting the results of an empirical study.