Additional benefits
One important additional benefit that was highlighted in many studies was that outdoor sports foster a lifetime of physical activity. Many outdoor sports lend themselves to long term activity habits over the life course and are not restricted to specific age groups.
Furthermore, there was evidence that outdoor sport can support people’s motivation to be physically active on a regular basis and for longer periods of time. Participants of outdoor sports reported greater enjoyment and satisfaction than those who took part in an activity indoors. They also indicated a greater intention to repeat the activity at a later date.
There is a broad range of outdoor sports, including cycling, hiking, trail running or outdoor swimming that are extremely accessible and usually free at the point of use. Urban based outdoor sports can take place in parks, forests and other green spaces as well as local rivers or lakes that are easy to access.
Outdoor sports can therefore be viewed as a low-cost opportunity for all and are accessible for those from socio-economically deprived communities.
As these activities are not dependent on organized pitches, courts or gyms, they meet the needs of the flexible living patterns of individuals in a modern society, while still offering the potential for social contact and engagement.
Additionally, there was evidence of outdoor sports providing unique benefits including development and peace or “world-making.”
Promoting outdoor physical activity generally has a positive ecological footprint due to its focus on engaging with and appreciating nature. Here are some aspects of promoting outdoor physical activity that contribute to a positive ecological footprint:
- Reduced Energy Consumption: Outdoor physical activities typically require less energy consumption compared to indoor activities. Engaging in outdoor activities like walking, hiking, or cycling does not rely on electricity or fossil fuels.
- Preservation of Natural Spaces: By promoting outdoor physical activity, there is an inherent emphasis on preserving and maintaining natural spaces, such as parks, trails, and green areas. This helps to protect ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and biodiversity.
- Awareness of Environmental Stewardship: Promoting outdoor physical activity often includes raising awareness about environmental issues and encouraging participants to adopt sustainable practices. This can lead to a greater sense of environmental stewardship and conservation.
- Connection with Nature: Engaging in outdoor activities fosters a deeper connection with the natural world, which can inspire individuals to become advocates for environmental sustainability and conservation.
- Health Benefits: Outdoor physical activity promotes overall health and well-being, which can have indirect positive effects on the environment. When people are healthy, they are more likely to adopt sustainable behaviors and make eco-conscious choices.
While promoting outdoor physical activity generally has a positive ecological footprint, it is important to consider potential negative impacts as well. These may include increased foot traffic in fragile ecosystems, disturbance to wildlife, and littering. However, with proper education and responsible practices, the positive ecological benefits can outweigh the negatives.
It’s worth noting that the ecological footprint can vary depending on the specific activities promoted, the management and infrastructure in place, and the behavior of participants. It is crucial to implement sustainable practices, educate participants on responsible outdoor behavior, and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to minimize any potential negative impacts and ensure the long-term sustainability of outdoor physical activity promotion.