Health impacts of recreational activities and games in the time of climate change

Exercise and movement are integral part of human life. Participation in recreational activities and games can be an enjoyable way of staying active, having a positive effect on physical, psychological and social health. Moreover, numerous activities have an added value as linked to cultural heritage. On the other hand, climate change leads to inevitable changes in traditional lifestyles and heritage practices, influencing exercise patterns and ways in which people engage in sports and games. To use but one example, warmer winters can have a deleterious effect on participation in winter sports.

I represent a group of researchers affiliated with the Riga Stradinsh University, Latvian Academy of Sport Education. We are looking to join a consortium or coordinator to analyse the impacts of outdoor activities and games on health and the way climate change influences participation in these activities and their outcomes.

We propose to look at the impacts on physical and psychological health, as well as social wellbeing.

We are also open to participation in other projects related to research into health, sports, and exercise, and will be happy to join an existing proposal as partners.

Keywords: exercise, physical activity, recreation, sport games