Sport and Quality of Life: Practices, Habits and Lifestyles

The book explores the impact of sport and physical activity on psychophysical well-being and quality of life, discussing the relationship between sports practice, enjoyment of sporting events, sport participation, and quality of life. It examines various aspects of the practice of sport from the perspective of age, life course research, physical education, government investment, sports tourism, and social networks and web apps.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 253 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book explores the profound impact of sport and physical activity on psychophysical well-being and quality of life through a multidisciplinary and multi-country lens. It delves into the intricate relationship between the commercial dimension of sport entertainment and the recreational dimension of sport practice, shedding light on how these aspects have converged in discussions about individual health, well-being, social integration, and participation. The chapters examine various facets of sport practice, both for professional and recreational purposes, from the perspectives of age, life course research, physical education in schools, government investment in sport activities across different stages of life, the burgeoning sports tourism industry, and the transformative influence of social networks and web apps on perceptions of fitness. This innovative work appeals to scholars and students in the fields of sport science, leisure studies, and well-being research, offering valuable insights into the multifaceted dimensions of sport's influence on individuals and society as a whole.

Introduction:
The world of sport and physical activity has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, driven by the convergence of various factors such as commercialization, technological advancements, and changing societal attitudes. This convergence has led to a renewed interest in the impact of sport and physical activity on psychophysical well-being and quality of life. In this comprehensive book, we aim to bring together a diverse range of essays that analyze the multifaceted effects of sport and physical activity on individuals and communities.

The Commercial Dimension of Sport Entertainment:
One of the most significant trends in the sports industry is the increasing commercialization of sport entertainment. This has led to the growth of professional sports leagues, the proliferation of sports media outlets, and the commercialization of sporting events. While the commercialization of sport has brought many benefits, such as increased funding and infrastructure, it has also raised concerns about the impact on the integrity of the sport and the well-being of athletes. The chapters in this section explore the relationship between sports entertainment, commercialization, and individual health and well-being. They examine how the commercialization of sport can influence the perception of fitness, the promotion of unhealthy eating habits, and the risk of injury. They also explore the role of sports media in shaping public attitudes towards sport and physical activity and the potential consequences of this influence.

The Recreational Dimension of Sport Practice:
While the commercial dimension of sport entertainment has gained prominence, the recreational dimension of sport practice remains an important aspect of human development and well-being. Sport and physical activity offer numerous benefits, including improved physical health, mental well-being, social integration, and community engagement. The chapters in this section examine the various aspects of sport practice, such as participation in organized sports, recreational activities, and physical fitness programs. They explore how sport practice can contribute to the development of skills, self-esteem, and social connections, and how it can enhance overall quality of life.

The Relationship between Sports Practice, Enjoyment of Sporting Events, Sport Participation, and Quality of Life:
The chapters in this section examine the complex relationship between sports practice, enjoyment of sporting events, sport participation, and quality of life. They explore how sports can promote social inclusion, reduce stress and anxiety, and enhance mental well-being. They also examine how sport participation can contribute to the development of social skills, teamwork, and leadership abilities. Additionally, they explore how the enjoyment of sporting events can foster a sense of community and belonging and how it can enhance overall well-being.

Age, Life Course Research, Physical Education in Schools, Government Investment in Sport Activities, and the Rise of Sports Tourism:
The chapters in this section examine the impact of age, life course research, physical education in schools, government investment in sport activities, and the rise of sports tourism on the practice of sport and quality of life. They explore how age-related changes in physical abilities and interests can influence sport participation and how life course research can provide valuable insights into the long-term effects of sport and physical activity on health and well-being. They also examine how physical education in schools can promote lifelong physical activity and how government investment in sport activities can contribute to the development of healthy and active communities. Finally, they explore how sports tourism can contribute to the economic development of regions and how it can enhance the experience of athletes and fans.

Social Networks and Web Apps:
In the digital age, social networks and web apps have become an integral part of our lives. They have revolutionized the way we communicate, connect, and engage with others. The chapters in this section examine the impact of social networks and web apps on the perception of fitness and the practice of sport. They explore how social media can promote healthy competition, provide access to fitness resources, and enhance social support. They also examine how web apps can track and monitor physical activity, provide personalized training plans, and connect athletes and coaches.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this comprehensive book explores the profound impact of sport and physical activity on psychophysical well-being and quality of life. It provides valuable insights into the relationship between sports practice, enjoyment of sporting events, sport participation, and quality of life. The chapters examine a wide range of topics, including age, life course research, physical education in schools, government investment in sport activities, the rise of sports tourism, social networks and web apps, and their impact on the practice of sport and quality of life. This book is of interest to scholars and students in the fields of sport science, leisure studies, and well-being research, as well as anyone who is passionate about the impact of sport and physical activity on individuals and communities.

Weight: 403g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030930943
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022