Outcomes of Using New Technologies in the Development of Recreational Sports: From Increasing Participation to Wealth Creation

Background. Today, technology is becoming one of the most critical factors that have led to the internationalization of competition in the sports industry. Nowadays, the sports industry is increasingly in need of technology to facilitate proper performance. Objectives. The present study aimed to identify the outcomes of using new technologies in the development of recreational sports. Methods. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews using a qualitative approach. Data collection was carried out by interviewing 13 professionals with academic education in physical education and sports science in various fields, including technology, sports engineering, and national coaches. The participants were selected using purposeful sampling and snowball sampling techniques. The focus of the interviews was based on a summary of experts' work experience in the relevant field, necessities, challenges, opportunities, solutions, and finally, the outcomes of using new technologies in the development of recreational sports. Results. Data analysis was also carried out using thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke, 2006). The present study's findings showed that the outcomes of using new technologies in the development of recreational sports are divided into six groups 1. Increasing participation opportunities, 2. Increasing participation diversity, 3. Inclusion of a wide range of beneficiaries, 4. Formation of positive and modern ideas 5) Alignment with new and global trends, and 6. Wealth creation and economic prosperity. Conclusion. According to the results of the current study, the three themes of increasing participation opportunities, increasing participation diversity, and inclusion of a wide range of beneficiaries are among the significant outcomes that lead to the formation of the positive and new mental image about using technology in recreational sports. And further, it has led to alignment with modern and global trends. Both of these outcomes lead to wealth creation and economic prosperity in recreational sports.