Sports and Physical Fitness in Australia - Assignment Example

Alison Ray Alison.ray@sydney.edu.au +61 2 3692 1788 Headline: Sports and Physical Fitness in Australia: Trends, Implications and Remedy. Dear Editor, AbstractOnly two major reasons motivate Australians into sports and physical fitness. Most of the Australians who go out to exercise want to keep fit or pass the time, or both. Other factors include peer pressure, the need to lose weight, and general well-being. However, recent research by the Standing Committee on Recreation and Sports Research Group reveals that only 29% of the Australian population engages in sports and physical fitness.

SummaryThis story – 400 words – gives a critical insight into the state of Australia’s physical fitness and the level of participation in sports. Only one-third of Australians take part in physical fitness activities and sports. Keeping fit and recreation are the main motivations for Australians who exercise. This has serious implications not only health-wise but also on the level of professional sports in the country. This story; therefore, seeks to critically analyze this tendency with a view to proposing the way forward.

There are other factors that motivate Australians to take part in sports and physical fitness programs. They include peer pressure and checking the weight. Some people exercise because their contemporaries are doing it. This is especially the case for young adults. As for older citizens, their major concern is weight. They; therefore, exercise in order to reduce weight. However, the frequency at which citizens are exercising is a major point of concern. 34% of the research sample did not participate in any sports or physical fitness activity while another 6% took part only occasionally.

Only 29% of the people interviewed exercised more than twice a week. Is Australia a physically unfit nation? Do these findings have any implications? What is the government’s role in ensuring that Australia is physically fit? What measures can be put into place to remedy this situation? Of course, every individual is responsible for their own health. However, they need an enabling environment to help them uphold healthy practices. In essence, the story will recommend the way forward, based on available resources.

Sources and Story Plan1. I have planned to hold an interview with Peter McKay, the Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Recreation and Sports Research Group, at Sydney Gardens on 20 May 2014 at 4.00 pm. He heads the research group that investigated the factors that motivated or de-motivated Australians in relation to physical fitness and sports.2. Will hold another interview with Marisol Freanken, the Administration Coordinator, at Kiwi Square on 20 May 2014. Mr. Freanken will shed light on the physical fitness trends among adult Australians.3. I will also interview a cross-section of ordinary Australians in order to gain their views and attitudes towards sports and physical fitness.

They will also provide insight into the factors that affect their willingness to take part in sports and physical fitness activities. Intended PublicationThis story will feature in the Sunday edition of the Herald Sun newspaper in the Lifestyle section. I would be glad to hear from you as soon as possible. Alison Ray.Research List1. The National Center for Culture and Recreation Statistics, Australian Bureau of Statistics Contains the findings of the research carried out by the Standing Committee on Recreation and Sports Research Group.

The research found that only 29% of the population engaged in physical fitness and sports; whereas, 34% had no interest whatsoever (ABS, p.10). The report also unearthed other motivators for exercise as weight loss and peer pressure. However, the major inspiration among Australians was good health and enjoyment. The research further cites lack of interest, fear of injuries, lack of time, and inadequate finance as major detractors to sporting and physical fitness activities.2. University of South Australia, Australian Sports Commission.

Contains a report by the University of South Australia. The report details the various determinants and barriers to involvement in sports for young people. It also explains the role of family, parents, peers, schools, and other stakeholders in promoting sports and physical activities in Australia (ASC, p.27). The report further outlines the implication of physical unfitness in terms of health, social and economic benefits. Works citedAustralian Bureau of Statistics. National Center for Culture and Recreation Statistics.