Time and Transitions: Influences on the Leisure Time Physical Activity of Young Adults in Rural and Urban Australia

Abstract

The rising physical inactivity rates of all adult age subgroups in Australia are a growing concern within public health. This original research explores a range of elements that influence the leisure time physical activity (LTPA) of young adults in South East Queensland, Australia. Using a socio-ecological framework and a grounded theory approach, this study combines data from 61 participant interviews, five key actor interviews, focus groups and environmental surveys across rural, outer-metropolitan and inner-metropolitan study sites. Recruitment targeted young adults aged 18-30 years, in sedentary occupations or study and without dependent children; and key actors including the representative for each local council. Analyses of these data link understandings of leisure and leisure time, physical activity and the nature of consumption of and for leisure that influence levels and types of engagement in physical activity. Semi-structured interviews explore aspects of the participants’ upbringing, details of their past and present leisure, transport practices, the effects of their environment and the effects of their socio-demographic position. Interviews with key actors highlighted local government policy environment influencing facilities, services and access particular to each area. An environmental audit of each site and a set of closed questions for participants assisted in this process. Together, data collection sought to reveal the enablers and inhibitors of physical activity for young adults living in each area. They show an important differentiation in the understanding of leisure and affective responses to leisure and physical activity that relate directly to levels of physical activity in their spare time, when leisure is more about relaxation and socialising than pursuits that involve physical activity. Perceptions of leisure, leisure time and physical activity change during young adulthood to begin to acknowledge the value of health maintenance as an appropriate reason to be physically active. The research findings provide insight into the enablers and inhibitors for young adults being physically active as well as directions for strategic interventions relating to young adults in the areas of health promotion, community recreation and local government planning. The transitions leading up to and including young adulthood are important influences in the attitude towards physical activity. Three elements are core enablers to LTPA: 1) deep familiarity and enjoyment of LTPA from youth; 2) access to affordable quality goods and services; and 3) access to age-appropriate local opportunities. During young adulthood, people’s affective responses play an important role in whether a young adult is physically active or not. As they adjust to the new demands of adulthood, they prefer for leisure experiences that provide opportunities to relax, reboot, rejuvenate, regenerate, renew, re-centre, re-energise, release and find relief. These highlight common sensations sought during leisure to form what I call the Nine R’s of Leisure. The findings present particular challenges for planners and promoters of LTPA and my recommendations target the development of physical literacy involving families and the whole school. In doing so, this research reframes the construction of opportunities for physical activity that will influence ways of understanding and prioritising physical activity in young adulthood. Show more