Personal and social influences

Participation refers to taking part in sports or other forms of physical exercise. Various factors can shape whether someone engages in these activities and which ones they choose. For example, the people around you can significantly affect your involvement in physical activities.

Family influence

Your family often shapes early attitudes towards sport. Parents might actively encourage or discourage participation. If parents or siblings are involved in sports, children become familiar with them from a young age and may have more opportunities to join in.

Friends and peer influence

Friends, especially those of similar age (known as peers), can sway your choices through shared attitudes. If your close friends enjoy a particular sport, you're more likely to play with them. Conversely, if peers view sport negatively and avoid it, this might reduce your own participation.

Role models in sport

Role models are individuals who excel in a sport and inspire others to follow their example. They encourage greater participation by showing what's possible. Media coverage plays a key part in creating these role models.

Gender influences on participation

Gender can impact activity choices and levels. Overall, surveys indicate that women participate in sport less regularly than men.

Key factors affecting gender participation

• Media coverage and role models - Women's events often receive less attention than men's, leading to fewer female role models. This can discourage younger girls from taking up sports.
• Sponsorship and opportunities - Reduced media exposure means less sponsorship for women's sports, resulting in fewer high-level opportunities and less funding for female athletes.
• Gender stereotyping - Outdated views label certain activities as 'masculine' or 'feminine'. For example, stereotypes might suggest that getting sweaty or playing aggressively isn't suitable for women, or that boys should avoid activities seen as less 'manly'. These ideas can limit choices and participation.

Influences of ethnicity and religion

Ethnic background and religious beliefs can affect participation by influencing clothing, timing, and cultural attitudes.

How ethnicity and religion shape participation

• Clothing requirements - Some religious practices, such as Muslim women covering their bodies, may reduce participation in activities like swimming where standard attire conflicts with these needs.
• Religious observances - Festivals or holy days can restrict when someone plays sport. For example, some Christians avoid activities on Sundays due to it being the Sabbath, preventing them from joining teams that play then.
• Addressing racism - Racism was once a major barrier in sport, but campaigns like Kick It Out have helped to raise awareness. Stricter punishments for racist behaviour among players and fans now help create safer environments. Governing bodies also promote positive role models from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
• Inclusive policies - Initiatives like the Rooney Rule in American football require interviewing at least one ethnic minority candidate for head coaching roles, increasing opportunities and diversity.

Disability and participation

Disability can limit physical activities, with studies showing lower participation rates among disabled people compared to non-disabled individuals.

Improving opportunities for disabled people

• Adapted sports - Existing sports are modified for accessibility, such as wheelchair basketball or handcycling.
• New sports for disabled participants - Sports like boccia (a seated game similar to bowls) and goalball (a team game for visually impaired players) have been created specifically for those with disabilities.
• Inclusion with non-disabled people - Integrating disabled individuals into mainstream activities challenges stereotypes and expands options.

Role of media and role models

Increased media coverage of events like the Paralympics has boosted visibility, changing public attitudes towards disability in sport. This has created more role models, such as athletes Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson and Ellie Simmonds, inspiring greater participation among disabled people.

Socio-economic influences

Socio-economic group categorises people based on income, location, and occupation. Studies suggest lower socio-economic groups participate less regularly, with choices affected by practical barriers.

Barriers related to socio-economic status

• Cost of participation - Many sports require money for equipment, clothing, or fees, making them unaffordable for some. High-cost activities like horse riding, skiing, sailing, or cycling can exclude people.
• Access to facilities and transport - Special venues like ski slopes or ice rinks may not be available locally. Without a car or reliable public transport, reaching them becomes difficult, leading to choices like football or basketball instead.
• Work and time constraints - Shift work or irregular hours can prevent joining clubs that meet in evenings or weekends. Long working hours or family responsibilities also reduce free time for sport.

Age-related influences

Age affects physical capabilities and lifestyle, influencing which activities are suitable and feasible.

How age impacts activity choices

• Younger age groups (16-30) - People in this range often have many options, with fewer physical limits and more spare time for sports.
• Older age groups (over 50) - Physical limitations lead to preferences for less strenuous activities like walking or swimming.
• Restrictions for young people - Sports like weightlifting or endurance events may have minimum age limits to prevent body damage.
• Time availability - Young people typically have more free time, while adults with careers and families often have less, reducing participation.

The role of physical education in schools

Physical education (PE) in schools is crucial for building positive attitudes towards sport and encouraging lifelong participation.

Key aspects of PE in shaping participation

• Trying different sports - PE classes and after-school activities allow students to explore various options, increasing familiarity and interest. Schools should offer a wide range to appeal to everyone.
• Encouraging engagement - Listening to student suggestions, allowing activity choices, and providing non-competitive options like fitness classes or yoga can reduce embarrassment and boost involvement.
• External support - Bringing in outside coaches or agencies helps with specialised training and development.
• Influence of teachers and facilities - Inspirational PE teachers or coaches can motivate students, while poor experiences might discourage them. Good facilities also inspire participation; outdated ones can deter it.