Is time a problem? The work-life-leisure balance and its impact on physical activities: A case study in Denmark

Abstract

In Western countries, sport and physical activities are key components of health policy. They serve as preventive measures against so-called "civilisation diseases", as symbols of a healthy and modern lifestyle and as important tools in the context of body enhancement projects. Thus, the questions that arise here are: to what extent are populations of industrial societies physically active or inactive and what are the reasons for not taking part in sport for all? This article looks at the situation in Denmark and examines the participation of the Danish population in recreational physical activities. The focus is on reasons for participating or not taking part in sport (for all) and particularly on the issue of time in this context. The first part of the article presents statistical data which is available on the physical activity patterns of Danes, in particular on the issue of time or lack of time; the second part deals with theoretical approaches to time, work-life-leisure balance and gender arrangements; the third part, based on results of an interview study, provides an in-depth insight into the use of time among older Danish adults and its impact on physical activity.