Tourism and physical activity preferences: Development and sustainability strategy

Abstract

The theoretical foundation of tourism policy is based on an interdisciplinary approach, using evidence-based findings from related scientific fields. For this reason, trends in the health and physical activity of the population should be considered as part of the promotion of healthy lifestyles in the field of tourism. The aim of this study is to support the multidisciplinary development of evidence-based tourism by using the results of long-term monitoring of physical activity (PA) preferences among youth. Furthermore, this study aims to support the continuation of education regarding tourism, behavioral changes in lifestyle, health promotion (including physical activity promotion), physical conditioning, as well as related mental conditioning. An interdisciplinary approach should lead to the adoption of knowledge, habits, and interests that lead to a lifelong readiness to participate in active tourism. The research sample of this 10-year survey consisted of 17,032 Czech and Polish respondents, aged from 12 to 25 years. A questionnaire on physical activity preferences was employed to explore the current status and trends in physical activity preferences and realization. The results show the actual status and trends in preferred and realized types of physical activity and represent an important indicator of tourism service choices for these youths, as well as predict future interests for tourism clients in schools. The analysis of the results enabled the suggestion of a prognostic model of tourism strategy focused on the integration of physical activity with tourism activities.