Leisure-time Physical Activities Participation Among International Tourists in the Cape Coast-elmina Conurbation

Abstract

ABSTRACT Leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) has become an effective preventive and management tool for non-communicable diseases, because of its therapeutic benefits. The study aimed at assessing leisure-time physical activities participation, motivation, constraints, and negotiation strategies among international tourists in the Cape Coast-Elmina area. The self-determination theory and hierarchical leisure constraint model guided the study. A cross sectional study using a questionnaire was used to collect data from 172 international tourists who visited Cape Coast and Elmina conurbation between May-July. Both descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed with the help of chi-square, t-test, ANOVA, Factor analysis, and linear regression. The study revealed that international tourists were motivated by relaxation, recreation, and fun to participate in LTPA. Also, the study revealed that the tourists were constrained mostly by structural issues. They negotiated these constraints with cognitive and leisure aspirations strategies. There were variations in motivation, constraint, and negotiation strategies across respondents’ background characteristics. Lastly, LTPA motivation and constraint contributed significantly to constraint negotiation strategies. It is recommended that the motivations identified should inform the marketing messages of destination management organizations in the country. Again, attention should be paid to improving the LTPA facilities in the Cape Coast Elmina area