Leisure versus Recreation

Leisure Free time that can be spent as you see fit Activities making up your unstructured free time Many different possibilities Not necessarily planned use of time, but not necessarily wasted time

Leisure is: “time when one is free to relax and do as one wishes” “freedom from time-consuming duties, responsibilities, or activities” “the time when you are not working or doing other duties” “time spent in or free for relaxing or enjoyment”

Recreation Participation in an activity that you enjoy An activity that will improve us or restore us in some way Examples: playing sports, watching T.V., downloading music, or playing video games, cooking, and baking, gardening

“an activity that diverts or amuses or stimulates” Recreation is: “the refreshment of one’s mind or body after work through activity that amuses or stimulates” “refreshment in the strength and spirits after toil; amusement; diversion; sport; pastime” “an activity that diverts or amuses or stimulates”

Benefits of Recreation

Personal Benefits Promotes physical fitness and active living Develops fine and gross motor skills Improves self-confidence Gives a more positive outlook on life Decreases stress Creates a more positive self image Provides the opportunity to learn new skills Improves problem solving, tolerance of others and leadership Promotes spiritual growth Gives opportunity to take calculated risks Allows to set short term and long term goals

Social Benefits Provides opportunities to develop friendships Improves social skills Reduces feeling of alienation Introduces new learning environments Promotes sharing, nurturing, and understanding of others Builds strong family ties Promotes ethnic and cultural harmony Improves group development

Economic Benefits Lowers medical costs Lowers job absenteeism Increases job stability and productivity Spurs economic growth Builds a sense of community Decreases crime and vandalism Boosts tourism

Environmental Benefits Protects and preserves environmentally sensitive areas Results in cleaner, well-maintained facilities Preserves cultural and historical sites Increases awareness in environmental issues Improves community image

Factor Affecting Our Recreational Interests and Pursuits Early Educational Experiences Family Influences Social (peer) Influences Cultural Influences Media and Other Influences

Barriers to Recreation and Leisure Pursuits Economic Factors Perceived Lack of Necessary Physical and Social Skills Time Constraints Work and Family Commitments Other Constraints Lack of Motivation - User Fees Lack of Facilities - Time of occurrence Age and gender - Lack of Participants Location - Equipment