Proposing a new conceptualisation for modern sport based on environmental and regulatory constraints: implications for research, coach education and professional practice

ABSTRACT

Recent expansion of the sporting domain has meant sports have lacked distinct definitions. These definitions have pertained to specific activities and/or a general perception of an assumed experience, which arguably misunderstands these modern sports. While growth in this domain is encouraging, a clear understanding of modern sports remains a requirement for optimal research, coaching practice and participation. Therefore, we critically consider the difference between these types of sport. In an attempt to address this, the article revisits current definitions of these modern, non-competitive, sports. Specifically, we exemplify issues of conflation within research as justification for our desired clarity. Secondly, we propose a two-dimensional conceptual framework to meaningfully differentiate between these sporting domains and finally, propose several implications for future research, education and applied practice. We hope this article brings clarity within research and the potential positive flow to enhancing education to achieve appropriate outcomes for various participants.

KEYWORDS:

• Action sport
• adventure sport
• extreme sport
• lifestyle sport
• participation

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Correction Statement

This article has been corrected with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Notes

1. At the time of writing this manuscript, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games have been postponed to 2021 due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Loel Collins

Dr Howie J. Carson is a Lecturer in Motor Learning and Control at The University of Edinburgh with a PhD in Motor Control and Sports Coaching. To date, he has published over 35 articles/book chapters in the areas of skill acquisition/refinement, coach decision-making, motor control and talent development. Professionally, he is an accredited PGA Professional golf coach (Fellowship status), BASES Sport and Exercise Scientist and Chartered Scientist. Reflecting these roles, he has worked with performers/organisations across a variety of contexts, including: mountaineering, golf, motor sport, dance, cricket, rugby union, archery, clay pigeon shooting and military training.

Howie J. Carson

Dr Loel Collins is Director of Learning and Development at the National Outdoor centre, Plas y Brenin, UK. His research interests lie in the understanding of judgement and decision making in complex environments and the education and training of outdoor professionals. He has taught extensively in the outdoor sector with more than 30-years of experience in a wide range of organisations internationally working as a guide, leader and coach. Loel’s background is as a kayaker and canoeist, having explored in many of the great ranges and the Arctic.