Promoting physical activity through sport: A life-long approach tailoring specific actions by age in the relevant settings

Paul Downward and Cristina Muniz

Chapter 26 in Research Handbook on Sport in Europe, 2026, pp 284-290 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Sport policies have focused on increasing participation, recognising that sport can generate a range of desirable outcomes for society. This chapter reflects on the context and definition of sport in European policy, before reviewing the impact of sport participation on these outcomes. Challenges are identified as there are underdeveloped areas and gaps in the research. The first is that research has primarily focused on analysing the demand-side determinants of participation in adults. The second is that less is known about the participation of children as well as the elderly. The third is that more research on the provision of facilities and the opportunities to participate is needed. The socio-ecological approach is presented as a theoretical foundation for future research reconciling the demand side with the provision of opportunities. Guidelines are suggested for policymakers to promote sport participation accounting for the different needs at any life stage.

Keywords: Sports promotion; Socio-ecological approach; Children's sports participation; Elderly sports participation; Life-long approach; Sports facilities (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035338382
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