Recreation
Articles tagged with Recreation
Long-term study of COVID lockdown and family life shows unexpected, lasting effects on fatherhood
A new study by Lee Gettler of the University of Notre Dame found that COVID-19 lockdowns had a limited lasting effect on fathers' involvement in childcare, contrary to initial reports. The 15-year longitudinal data showed no significant change in fathering behaviors before and after the pandemic, with most dads resuming their pre-pande...
Having a religious affiliation doesn’t prevent betting on sports
A new study found that Catholic men are the most likely group to engage in sports gambling in the US, contradicting the long-held assumption that religion discourages such behavior. Researchers also discovered that people who infrequently attend religious services are more likely to gamble on sports than those who attend regularly.
Rethinking Europe’s nature reserves
Researchers propose incorporating local knowledge into nature conservation through a biocultural approach. This involves collaborating with local people, considering traditional land-use practices and their impact on protected areas.
Highly and casually active citizen scientists contribute equally valuable data
A new study finds that contributions from casual and highly active citizen scientists are equally valuable, with each group complementing the other. The research, led by Erin Grady, analyzed millions of observations on iNaturalist and found that both groups contribute to balancing biases in data collection.
The next mountain tourism boom? Via Ferrata’s global rise prompts call for industry collaboration
A new study calls for dedicated research to guide the sustainable and commercially viable development of Via Ferrata tourism. The sport, which combines elements of hiking, mountaineering, and rock climbing, has experienced rapid growth globally, but lacks a consolidated evidence base.
Post-game depression: Polish scientists first to create tool to measure this phenomenon
Researchers from SWPS University develop Post-Game Depression Scale (P-GDS) to capture players' experiences after finishing video games. The study reveals RPG fans are most at risk of intense P-GD, associated with stronger depressive symptoms and lower well-being.
Glacial lakes are growing rapidly in Alaska, and research shows where growth will continue
Research shows glacial lakes in Alaska expanding 50% faster than previously recorded, posing significant hazards and altering ecosystems. The study identifies areas where lakes may form and grow, helping with infrastructure planning and predicting changes to ecosystems, hazards, and recreation.
Around 6 deaths a year linked to clubbing in the UK
A 15-year retrospective study found that physical assault and excessive MDMA use are primary causes of nightclub deaths in the UK. The study reveals a significant number of young women are at higher risk of dying from drug-related causes.
Shooting sports unlocked: how EEG reveal secrets of shooters
A systematic review categorizes EEG studies in shooting sports into four main directions, revealing brain plasticity principles and neural efficiency mechanisms underlying exceptional performance. Elite shooters exhibit enhanced activation in the right brain hemisphere, synchronizing alpha rhythms to suppress irrelevant thoughts.
Tourists are fuelling exploitative working conditions by demanding cheap holidays warns new research
A new study from the University of Surrey and Strathclyde University finds that customers' obsession with cheap travel is linked to low wages and harmful working environments for service staff. The research highlights evidence of widespread harassment of service workers, particularly among airlines and hospitality companies.
How travel and dating apps are changing relationship rules for queer men
Research reveals queer men in relationships are shifting from secretive to open approaches to sex and intimacy while traveling. Participants described 'monogamish' and 'open' relationship arrangements, with clear boundaries and communication crucial for avoiding problems.
A shift from the sandlot to the travel team for youth sports
Researchers found that youths born in the 1990s spent more time playing formal sports compared to their peers, with those from higher social class backgrounds dominating these opportunities. This shift away from informal play raises concerns about the costs and benefits of commercialized youth sports.
Here's why you need a backup for the map on your phone
A recent study found that 81% of hikers rely on mobile phones for navigation, increasing the risk of getting lost or ending up in dangerous situations. Researchers emphasize the need for alternative strategies, such as using paper maps, marked trails, and asking other hikers, to ensure safe travel.
Olympic Games and climate action: Time for a fundamental shift
The Olympic Games' substantial carbon footprint highlights the need for a profound overhaul to comply with the Paris Agreement. Researchers recommend scaling down events, reducing air travel and increasing use of renewable energy to achieve ambitious emission reduction targets.
How tech-dependency and pandemic isolation have created ‘anxious generation’
Experts like Amber Chandler suggest solutions such as no-tech public spaces, phone-free bedtimes, and hands-on problem-solving to help teenagers cope with unprecedented anxiety. Chandler's book offers evidence-based strategies to nurture belonging in a 'scared new world'.
Tourism is quietly rewriting women’s lives in countries under strict religious rule, according to a new study
A new study from the University of Surrey found that women in Iran's tourism sector are navigating state control, religious authority, and patriarchal norms to earn, lead, and be seen. They use digital platforms, peer networks, mentoring, and training to build visibility, income, and independence.
University of Surrey spin-out boosts kids' social skills and fights loneliness in older people
ConnectPlayWise offers a low-cost, in-house solution for delivering social-emotional learning (SEL) and reducing loneliness in care homes. The platform allows children aged 7–12 to connect safely with older adults through interactive mini-games, improving socio-emotional skills while fostering intergenerational understanding.
Connections with nature in protected areas
A study by the University of Göttingen explores how people experience nature in protected landscapes, finding that these areas foster local identity, support learning about nature, and provide spaces for recreation. The research identified five central narratives: learning, regional heritage, care, multifunctional use, and collaboration.
Teens who play video games with gambling-like elements more likely to start real betting, study suggests
A new longitudinal study found that young people who engage in gaming habits with gambling-like elements are more likely to gamble with real money. The research team urges policymakers to broaden regulations beyond loot boxes and includes social casino games, prize wheels, and gambling videos in the scope.
The biggest threats to maintaining fat bike trails: Climate change and volunteer burnout
Research highlights the challenges of maintaining fat bike trails due to climate disruption and volunteer burnout. The study calls for seasonal strategies to distribute workload, create binational events, and implement recognition programs.
Study exposes how video game studios are violating children’s privacy rights
A new study by the University of Ottawa exposes how video game studios are violating children's privacy rights. Researchers analyzed 139 privacy policies and found none fully comply with existing legal frameworks.
Backyard birders in South Africa may continue to enjoy biodiversity in visiting birds under climate change scenarios, while climate change and declining biodiversity may decrease birding in protected public parks
Under climate change scenarios, backyard birders in South Africa can still appreciate diverse bird species, but declining biodiversity and climate change may reduce birding opportunities in protected public parks. The study found that cultural ecosystem services, like birding, have non-market value and are essential to human well-being.
Ditch ‘shrink it and pink it’ approach to women’s running shoes, manufacturers urged
A study finds that women runners prioritize comfort, injury prevention, and performance when choosing running shoes, highlighting a need for sex- and gender-specific designs that accommodate female foot morphology across the lifespan. The researchers recommend moving beyond scaling down men's shoes to fit women's feet.
Caregivers identify key barriers to youth enrichment programs in low-income communities
Research finds primary caregivers in urban under-resourced communities highlight the importance of parent input to boost equitable access to out-of-school-time activities. Key strategies include broad outreach, structural investments, and family engagement to improve participation and quality., The study suggests that enrichment and re...
Arts programs can help prevent heart disease, diabetes, and other leading causes of deaths, large study finds
A large international study found that arts-based programs can make health messages more memorable and relevant to people's lives, improving health behaviors and cultural relevance of disease prevention programs. The study suggests that arts could be a vital part of the toolkit for promoting health and preventing disease.
A serve with serious swerve
Using 3D computational fluid dynamics simulations, researchers explored the impact of pre-spin on shuttlecock trajectories during spin serves. They found that pre-spin can prolong the oscillation phase and affect the stability of the serve, offering insights for players to refine their serving skills.
Sun, sea and sexual violence: How party tourism promotes and permits sexual assault - study
Research from the University of Birmingham finds that party tourism creates an environment for sexual assault by normalizing extreme behavior and prioritizing economic revenue over women's safety. The study highlights how destinations silence victims to protect their reputation, reinforcing a culture of silencing survivors.
From puck drop to brain pop
Researchers found that passionate fans show more activity in the dorsal medial prefrontal cortex during offensive faceoff opportunities, indicating emotional involvement and evaluative thinking. The study used functional near-infrared spectroscopy to track brain activity in 20 participants watching a professional European ice hockey game.
It’s not the game, it’s the group: Sports fans connect the most over rituals
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that sports fans' emotional arousal peaks during pre-game rituals, not during the game itself. Physiological data from a Brazilian soccer fan club shows sustained arousal levels comparable to the game.
Board game enables autistic people to create stories about their condition
Researchers found that playing Dixit helped evoke emotions in autistic participants, covering three main themes: anxiety, social relationships, and sensory experiences. The study suggests the game could be an effective tool for bridging gaps between autistic and neurotypical people.
Smartphones reveal hidden impacts of people on wildlife
Researchers used anonymized GPS data from smartphones to monitor how wildlife reacts to people, highlighting the potential of human mobility data in tracking human-wildlife conflicts. The study's findings can inform conservation planning, help protect animals and wild spaces, and ensure that recreational activities are done responsibly.
How African tourism entrepreneurs found a way to weather the storm and thrive after Covid
A new study from the University of Surrey finds that African tourism entrepreneurs employ proactive strategies to overcome challenges, including operational adjustments, resource management optimisations, and creative pricing tactics. This approach significantly enhances their resilience and wellbeing amid adversity.
Life, death and mowing – study reveals Britain’s poetic obsession with the humble lawnmower
The study highlights key findings that British poets have long explored the relationship between humans and nature through lawnmower poetry. Key examples include Andrew Marvell's 'Upon Appleton House' and Philip Larkin's 'The Mower', which reflect on cycles of violence, pastoralism, and societal problems.
Seeing well-designed gardens could relax us almost immediately because we look at them differently
A team of researchers investigated the impact of Kyoto's Murin-an garden on viewers' relaxation. They found a correlation between rapid gaze shifts and reduced stress levels. The design features of the well-crafted Japanese garden led to frequent, rapid horizontal shifts in gaze, which induced a calming effect.
People who swap mundane jobs for meaningful careers still do it tough: study
A decade-long study of snowsport instructors reveals that pursuing a career in a field you enjoy can be taxing, requiring financial, mental, and physical sacrifices. However, the research also found that participants reported experiencing significant personal growth and fulfillment.
Extended reality boccia shows positive rehabilitation effects
A space-saving version of boccia, called Boccia XR, has been developed as a rehabilitation program for older adults. Participants showed improved moods, vitality, and energy after experiencing both Boccia XR and traditional boccia, with increased muscle activity in the rectus femoris during both types of boccia.
Active families boost teens’ physical and mental health
A new study from the University of South Australia found that teenagers who exercise regularly with their families are more likely to meet activity guidelines and report stronger mental health. The research showed that daily family exercise can lead to improved physical and mental well-being in teens, building strong bonds and confidence.
AMS science preview: Fire weather, bumpy hurricane flights, climate extremes and protests
Recent research highlights increased fire activity in the western US, with wildfires becoming less prone to calming down at night. Meanwhile, extreme turbulence on hurricane flights has led to a new 'bumpiness' metric. Climate extremes are also evident in shifting energy demands for heating and cooling in Chinese megacities.
New industry study identifies key routes to engaging guests on travelling more sustainably
A new study from the University of Surrey, Accor, and Booking.com has identified four key ways to engage guests in sustainable travel. The report highlights the importance of clear sustainability messaging, balancing appeals to pleasure and comfort, empowering guests, and helping them act responsibly while away.
Association of state cannabis legalization with cannabis use disorder and cannabis poisoning
A longitudinal cohort study found that state cannabis legalization is associated with increased cannabis use disorder and poisoning diagnoses. Communities with increased access to cannabis may experience increased healthcare use and costs due to these rising diagnoses.
Runners who wear these shoes are more likely to get injured
A recent study from the University of Florida found that runners with thicker heels were more prone to injury due to confusion over foot strike patterns. Flatter shoes, on the other hand, were associated with lower injury rates and improved sensation with the ground.
Hiring people with disabilities positively influences hotel guest perceptions, finds study
A new study from the University of Surrey found that employing people with disabilities in hotels boosts customer intentions to recommend and revisit hotels. Guests perceive hotels that employ PWD as more socially responsible, leading to increased positive word-of-mouth communication and repurchase intention.
Could online technology be a clue as to why boys in Norway are outperforming girls in learning English as a second language?
A new study found that Norwegian boys are outperforming girls in learning English as a second language, with the gap increasing at age 13. The researchers suggest that online gaming and digital technology may be contributing factors, contradicting conventional wisdom about gender differences in language acquisition.
Research highlights the pressures human activities place on tropical marine ecosystems
A new study highlights the pressures human activities place on tropical marine ecosystems, with fishing techniques and tourism posing the greatest threat. The research provides insights into the impact of various activities on different habitats, shedding light on how to ensure sustainable management.
Mountain lions coexist with outdoor recreationists by taking the night shift
A study found that mountain lions in areas with high human recreation are more nocturnal, adjusting their activity to avoid interactions. The animals' flexibility in timing allows for coexistence between humans and wildlife.
Cannabis use during early pregnancy following recreational cannabis legalization
Recreational cannabis legalization in California is associated with higher rates of cannabis use during early pregnancy, driven by jurisdictions allowing adult-use retailers. The study found that individuals living in these areas were more likely to use cannabis during early pregnancy.
Scientists explore privilege and consequences of recreation for people and wildlife
The study found that uneven distribution of resources gives some individuals more access to play than others. Wildlife is a major draw for nature-based tourism, but human recreation has unintended consequences for biodiversity. To coexist with wildlife, it's essential to follow common-sense rules and minimize disturbance.
Get a grip: The best thumb position for disc launch speed and spin rate
Research by Zachary Lindsey and team found that a thumb position of approximately 3 cm from the outer edge of a disc corresponds to high average angular and translational speeds for all participants. This results in simultaneously high spin rates and launch speeds, increasing distance.
Increase access to nature in all daily environments and in education
A Kobe University research team analyzed conditions for access to nature across generations, finding that availability of green spaces, nature-relatedness, and childhood experiences drive visits. The study highlights the importance of effective environmental education and urban planning policies to address inequalities in nature access.
What role does a tailwind play in cycling’s ‘Everesting’?
A cycling physicist found that a strong tailwind has a negligible effect on an Everesting record. The wind boost on the ascent is canceled out by the significant headwind on the descent.
Research update: Recreational tubing, swimming leaves an impact on streams
Researchers found that recreational tubing and swimming have a short-term impact on stream chemistry and microbiome, increasing levels of metals and human-associated microbes.
Labor day crowds temporarily impact local streams, research shows
Researchers found that recreational activities like tubing and swimming temporarily introduce chemicals and microscopic organisms into local waterways. The study suggests that these changes can have significant impacts on plants and animals along the way, even if they are short-lived.
Dark rituals: Understanding society's fascination with death and disaster
A new framework analyzes dark tourism, thanatology, and collective memory studies to understand why people are drawn to events steeped in themes of death, disaster, and suffering. The study reveals a complex interplay of curiosity, thrill-seeking behavior, cultural traditions, and psychological exploration.
Study examines urban forests across the United States
Researchers analyzed six US cities and found that tree species in parks were more drought-tolerant and reflected greater native biodiversity than those in residential yards. The study highlights the importance of planting drought-tolerant trees in urban areas to adapt to future climate change.
New study: Outdoor recreation noise affects wildlife behavior and habitat use
A recent study published in Current Biology indicates that outdoor recreation noise can trigger a fear response in wildlife, altering their behavior and habitat use. The research, conducted in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, found that different types of recreation noise, group size, and human presence affected animal responses.
As Paris preps for Olympics, Coloradans still feel ambivalent about hosting
A new study found that Coloradans are still ambivalent about hosting the Olympics, with strong opposition from self-identified Republicans and Independents to taxpayer-funded bids. The research suggests that cities need to address public costs and make clear why they believe the costs will be worth it.
Videoconferencing gets older adults moving as health lessons put to practical use
A 12-week health education program using videoconferencing software showed improved physical activity and adherence to health advice compared to a control group. The study suggests that videoconferencing can be an effective tool for promoting sustainable behavioral changes among older adults, regardless of location or distance.
Recreational marijuana laws and teen marijuana use, 1993-2021
A repeated cross-sectional study of recreational marijuana laws and teen marijuana use from 1993-2021 found no evidence of an encouraging effect. The logistic regression and interaction-weighted models showed no significant association between the two variables.
Bonobos aren’t as peace-loving as we thought
A new Harvard study reveals that male bonobos engage in more acts of aggression than chimpanzees, contrary to their peaceful reputation. The researchers found that bonobos exhibit less sexual coercion and violence towards females, but more frequent 'squabbling' among males.