Orientation patterns of sports and physical activity among young people in Switzerland

Abstract

In recent years, adolescent sports and physical activity have become a multifaceted culture. Different patterns of sports and physical activities are assumed to be based on different subjective action orientations. This paper aims to examine the variations in sports and physical activity among youths and young adolescents based on the sports models proposed by Heinemann (Citation2007) and the attributed action orientations based on Weber (Citation2002). In a qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight Swiss participants aged from 16 to 24 years to explore their sports and physical activities as well as their subjective attributed action orientations. The interviews were analyzed using the documentary method. The results of the present study demonstrate that ‘real types’ of sports models can be identified empirically in substantial accordance with the ‘ideal types’ of sports models proposed by Heinemann (Citation2007). Four overarching types of orientation patterns emerged: (1) a value-rational orientation pattern with high importance of performance and competition; (2) a value-rational orientation pattern with high importance of autonomy and flexibility; (3) a purpose-rational orientation to achieve ideals of body, beauty, and slenderness; and (4) a purpose-rational orientation to achieve well-being.