Chapter 10: Promoting physical activity participation 10.1 Physical activity participation Introduction: Discuss the supports and barriers to physical activity participation in school and the community: • social groups such as peers • cost • access • role models • school. – Ask the students to identify how social groups have affected their own participation. – Ask the students to contribute examples from their own school and local area.
PRACTICE QUESTION ANSWERS Q1. Outline the effect it is likely to have on you if your peer group regularly participate in physical activity. –P eers who are active and involved in physical activity will have a positive effect on your participation. – Peers who participate will have a positive attitude towards physical activity. – Peers will be more likely to support and encourage your participation. Q2. Outline how cost can be a barrier to participation and what can be done about it. –P revents some groups from participating e.g. working class, unemployed, retired. – Lower rates for unemployed people and pensioners during off-peak times. – Deals for families e.g. family memberships. – Subsidised by local government e.g. council run leisure centres. Q3. Access to facilities can affect participation in physical activity. Outline two solutions to this problem. – People with disabilities need ramps, automatic doors, suitable changing facilities. – Opening times need to accommodate shift workers. – Mothers/fathers need baby-changing and crèche facilities. – Public transport needs to be available. Q4. Explain what a role model is and how role models can have a positive influence on participation. A role model is someone who other people follow and aspire to emulate e.g. Brian O’Driscol. Role models: – motivate people to get involved and try to emulate their success – set a high standard of performance and influence trends – shape attitudes towards physical activity by showing it can be enjoyable and exciting – raise interest in an activity through increased media coverage – set an example by playing fairly and demonstrating good sportsmanship. Q5. Describe three barriers to participation in school and three ways schools can support participation. Barriers: – Old or damaged facilities may discourage students from taking part. – A lack of facilities will prevent participation. –A negative attitude from staff towards extra-curricular activities will reduce opportunities. – A lack of funding will result in a lack of equipment. –A lack of trained PE specialists teaching PE will reduce the quality and breadth of the curriculum.
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