A Saluto-ecological perspective of mass participation sport events in Pembrokeshire

Background and context Mass participation sport events (MPSEs) have grown in popularity. Specifically, in Pembrokeshire, West Wales, participation has seen a continued increase in participant numbers and events over the last decade. Moreover, extremely high numbers of Pembrokeshire residents are taking part in MPSE physical activity (both events and activity). Current research provides a narrow demonstration of the role of MPSE physical activity participation in public health and the relationship between the events and the community that hosts them.The aim of this study is to explore a saluto-ecological perspective of mass participation sport events in Pembrokeshire. Methods The study adopted a three-phase sequential mixed method design. Each phase included multiple qualitative methods as well as a concurrent nested design in the second phase to include quantitative methods. Qualitative methods include document analysis of online sources of information (such as blogs, county council reports and newspaper articles); ethnographies of events and interviews with MPSE participants and members of the community. Quantitative methods included three surveys (one demographic and two motivation questionnaires). Findings Three major findings are presented: 1) Habitual physical activity goes beyond physical health benefits or health-risk avoidance and plays a more significant role in a salutogenic perspective of health and wellbeing.; 2) Interacting resources supported individuals’ engagement and continued participation in physical activity; 3) There is a mutual dependence between events and the community. Conclusion This study demonstrates that habitual physical activity transcends physical health benefits or risk avoidance and plays a more significant role in a salutogenic perspective of health and wellbeing. Additionally, interacting resources from the individuals and their environments are fundamental to support continued engagement in physical activity. Finally, by demonstrating the role of the wider community in successful events, this study demonstrates the closeness to which destination marketing organisations (DMOs), and event managers must work with communities to ensure their continued support.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

phd

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

doctoral

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Year dc:date.issued

2022

Author dc:creator

• Piper, Kate

• H Gwyddorau Cymdeithasol (Cyffredinol)
• QP Ffisioleg
• RA0421 Lechyd cyhoeddus. Glanweithdra. Meddygaeth Ataliol

Dc Identifier Grantnumber

UWTSD

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.uwtsd.ac.uk:2228