2.1: Understanding our Personal Experiences

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the role of motivation in shaping personal experiences of physical activity using the Self-Determination Theory.
• Evaluate the impact of environmental and sociocultural factors on individuals' attitudes towards physical activity.
• Identify psychological and emotional responses that influence personal preferences for physical activity

Our personal experiences with physical activity are shaped by a variety of individual and environmental factors, with motivation playing a central role. While physical activity has long been recognized for its benefits to physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life, the reasons individuals choose to engage in exercise can differ greatly. For some, the drive to move stems from internal desires—an inherent love of the activity itself or the personal fulfillment it brings. For others, external influences like social expectations, fitness goals, or health concerns play a more prominent role. These varying motivations not only determine whether someone begins an exercise routine but also influence their ability to sustain it over time. Understanding the nuances of what drives physical activity is critical, as it sheds light on how different motivational factors impact engagement, enjoyment, and long-term adherence to active lifestyles.

According to Deci and Ryan’s (2000) Self-Determination Theory, motivation is categorized into intrinsic and extrinsic types, each significantly influencing how we perceive physical activity. Intrinsic motivation comes from a genuine love or enjoyment of the activity itself. Ekkekakis et al. (2011) found that people motivated intrinsically—whether by the satisfaction or joy of movement—report more positive emotions and fulfillment during exercise, making it easier to sustain over time.  In contrast, extrinsic motivation relies on external factors like rewards, recognition, or avoiding negative consequences. Deci and Ryan (2000) noted that extrinsically motivated individuals often view exercise as a means to an end, whether it be for health benefits, weight loss, or social approval. Although these external motivators can initiate a physical activity routine, Ekkekakis et al. (2011) found that they are often less effective in sustaining long-term engagement, as extrinsically motivated individuals may not experience the same positive affective responses and thus face a higher risk of burnout.

These motivational orientations often influence how people perceive and engage in physical activity throughout their lives. Intrinsically motivated individuals are more likely to see exercise as a regular and enjoyable part of life, while those with an extrinsic orientation may see it as a task or obligation. Health and fitness professionals can benefit from understanding these differences to help clients foster intrinsic motivation, making physical activity a source of both personal satisfaction and long-term commitment (Deci & Ryan, 2000; Ekkekakis et al., 2011).  Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\) provides a depiction of a motivation continuum.

Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\): This figure provides an example motivation continuum in response to the question "why do I run?".  The image demonstrates common reponses for physical actvitiy participation and orients them on the scale according to where they fall from amotivated to intrinsically motivated. (Copyright 2024 © Dr Sharon Gam)

The decision to return to physical activity is also deeply influenced by our unique subjective experiences, as these moments hold an emotional resonance that shapes how we view and relate to the activity. If we don’t connect with an activity on a personal level, it’s unlikely to become a sustained part of our lives. As Ekkekakis et al. (2011) found, affective responses play a pivotal role, leading people to favor activities that align with their personal preferences and create positive associations. For example, someone with positive memories from playing team sports may seek similar social environments as an adult, while someone with negative experiences in fitness settings may avoid them. This emotional imprinting is an ongoing process, as each engagement in physical activity floods our nervous system with complex signals, which we process and internalize through self-reflection, transforming raw sensory data into lasting perceptions and knowledge. This process can even shape career paths, especially for those considering roles in physical activity professions, as they develop insight into the ways subjective experience enriches physical engagement.

Subjective experiences in sport can be thought of as the personal motivations, perceptions, emotional responses, and intuitive insights that shape how and why we engage in physical activity or take pleasure in observing it. While these internal experiences can be hard to put into words, discussing them can help clarify the meaning we derive from the activity. When our engagement is truly subjective and meaningful, external motivations like appearance or social approval become less important to our commitment.   Whether we are participating in or viewing a sport, several factors contribute to our enjoyment. For spectators, the enjoyment often arises from the ability to experience the performance through imagination. Watching an athlete compete can lead us to envision ourselves in their shoes, feeling the thrill and tension of the game as if we were playing. For others, the joy may come not from the sport itself but from the social connections around it, whether it’s identifying with a particular player or bonding with fans in the crowd. Factors like knowledge of the game, emotional ties to teams or players, and the drama or suspense of competition all play into how we experience watching sports.  These subjective responses also connect to our broader personal preferences. Some enjoy sports for the aesthetic appeal, as in dance, while others find emotional release in high-intensity events like football or basketball. Ultimately, the factors that drive us to engage in or view sports are deeply personal and shaped by internalized motivations, aesthetic appreciation, and the cathartic release that sports can offer. 

Factors that Shape our Perceptions

The interplay between culture, socioeconomic status, and access to resources creates diverse perceptions and practices around physical activity globally. Understanding these factors helps in promoting inclusive strategies that cater to different communities’ needs and values. For instance, in Scandinavian countries like Norway and Sweden, outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and cycling are deeply embedded in the culture. These nations emphasize "friluftsliv" (open-air living), where engaging with nature is not only seen as beneficial but essential to a healthy lifestyle. As a result, individuals from these cultures may prioritize outdoor physical activities in their daily lives. In contrast, in countries like Japan and South Korea, where academic achievement is highly emphasized, students often face intense pressure to succeed in school. Long hours dedicated to studying can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle, as academic success takes precedence over physical activity. Physical exercise may be limited to structured school-based activities rather than leisure pursuits.

Socioeconomics

Similarly, socioeconomic status significantly impacts access to resources that promote physical activity. In wealthier communities, such as urban areas in cities like Sydney, Australia, or Vancouver, Canada, residents often have access to well-equipped gyms, fitness classes, and a wide range of recreational spaces. These amenities foster a positive perception of physical activity by making exercise convenient, accessible, and varied. However, in economically disadvantaged areas, like rural regions in parts of India or sub-Saharan Africa, access to such resources may be limited. Physical activity in these areas may be viewed differently, as it is often tied to daily labor or survival tasks, such as farming or walking long distances for water or work. In these contexts, physical exercise is more functional and may be seen as a necessity rather than a leisure pursuit.

Culture

Culture plays a powerful role in shaping our physical activity experiences, often determining which activities are valued, accessible, and socially encouraged. Cultural values influence not only the types of physical activities people engage in but also how these activities are practiced, who participates, and what they mean in different societies.  In Western cultures, where individualism and self-improvement are often emphasized, physical activity is frequently associated with personal fitness goals, sports, and organized workouts. Gyms, marathons, and fitness challenges are widely popular, with a focus on physical performance, aesthetics, and health benefits. Yet even within Western countries, there is a growing recognition of the social and cultural dimensions of physical activity. Group exercise classes, community runs, and team sports create opportunities for social connection and support, acknowledging that motivation is often enhanced by shared experiences.  Exploring beyond western borders, there are many examples of how culture influences physical activity around the world. 

In many East Asian countries, physical activity is deeply connected to practices that emphasize harmony, balance, and mindfulness. Tai Chi, originating in China, combines fluid, gentle movements with controlled breathing and has been practiced for centuries as a means of promoting physical health and inner peace. In Japan, radio calisthenics (rajio taiso) has long been a national morning ritual, with people of all ages gathering in parks, schools, and workplaces to engage in a series of stretching and strengthening exercises. These activities are valued not only for their physical benefits but also for their social and communal aspects, often reinforcing bonds within families and communities.  In India, yoga—a practice deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy—serves as a global example of cultural influence on physical activity. Originally developed as a spiritual and physical discipline, yoga integrates physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation, providing holistic health benefits. While yoga has been adapted and popularized worldwide, many in India continue to practice it as part of their cultural heritage, and it is often seen as a lifelong journey rather than a mere fitness regimen.

In some Middle Eastern countries, where cultural norms may impose restrictions on women’s public physical activities, there are emerging efforts to create inclusive spaces. Women’s-only fitness centers, as seen in countries like Saudi Arabia, provide a comfortable and socially acceptable environment for women to engage in exercise. Additionally, organized runs, walks, and other fitness events tailored for women have begun to take hold, providing a safe, supportive space for physical activity while respecting cultural sensitivities around gender.  In some Indigenous cultures, physical activity is linked to traditional practices and rituals that carry deep cultural meaning. Many Native American tribes, for example, engage in dancing and running as part of ceremonies that honor their spiritual connection to the land. The Inuit of the Arctic engage in activities such as traditional games and hunting practices, which are both physically demanding and culturally significant. For these communities, physical activity is more than exercise; it is a continuation of ancestral practices that strengthens their identity and preserves cultural heritage.  Chapter 4 will go into greater detail on the connection between rituals and physical activity.

From dance and martial arts to community sports and individual fitness pursuits, physical activity varies widely across cultures. These diverse practices demonstrate how physical activity, rather than being a universal concept, is deeply shaped by cultural beliefs, values, and social structures. Recognizing and understanding these differences can foster a more inclusive approach to promoting physical activity that respects cultural diversity and provides pathways for everyone to participate in ways that align with their identity and traditions.

Environment

The built environment, encompassing the physical layout and infrastructure of communities, plays a critical role in shaping physical activity experiences. Accessibility to recreational spaces, neighborhood design, and even street safety can either encourage or discourage activity, profoundly influencing public health. Studies by Giles-Corti et al. (2005) highlight that when parks, sidewalks, and other amenities are easily accessible, individuals are more likely to engage in physical activities like walking, jogging, and cycling. In neighborhoods with pedestrian-friendly features, such as well-maintained sidewalks, crosswalks, and green spaces, walking and cycling are not only viable modes of transportation but enjoyable activities integrated into daily life.

Around the world, many countries are embracing innovative approaches to urban planning that encourage physical activity. In the Netherlands, for instance, cities like Amsterdam are designed to prioritize cyclists with dedicated bike lanes, bike traffic lights, and an extensive network of paths. This cycling infrastructure, combined with a culture that values biking, has led to a high level of physical activity among residents. In Denmark, Copenhagen’s “Green Cycle Routes” offer a scenic, car-free network that weaves through parks and neighborhoods, making it safe and enjoyable for residents to bike or walk to their destinations. This infrastructure also reduces vehicle traffic, improving air quality and creating a healthier environment for everyone.

In Japan, space constraints in urban areas have led to vertical parks and rooftop gardens, providing city dwellers with green spaces where land is scarce. Tokyo’s “Green Road Project” has transformed underused spaces, such as the tops of buildings and railway lines, into accessible recreational areas that encourage walking and relaxation in dense urban environments. Singapore, another city with limited land challenges, has incorporated “Park Connectors,” a series of interconnected green spaces and trails that run through the city, allowing residents to cycle, jog, or walk from one part of the city to another in a safe and scenic environment.

 However, not all built environments are designed to support physical activity, and some may even discourage it due to safety concerns. In areas with high traffic, poor street lighting, or few sidewalks, residents may feel unsafe walking, jogging, or biking. Urban sprawl, common in many North American cities, also presents challenges. In sprawling suburbs, distances between homes and amenities are often too great to walk or bike conveniently, and a reliance on cars becomes necessary, reducing physical activity opportunities. Additionally, neighborhoods with high crime rates or insufficient pedestrian infrastructure may deter people from engaging in outdoor activities.

To counter these issues, policymakers and urban planners are implementing solutions aimed at creating safer, more active communities. Some U.S. citites have adopted “complete streets” policies emphasizing street designs that are safe for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. By adding crosswalks, protected bike lanes, and better lighting, these initiatives improve safety and accessibility, encouraging more people to walk and cycle. Similarly, Bogotá, Colombia, has implemented “Ciclovía,” a weekly event where major streets are closed to cars, allowing pedestrians, cyclists, and rollerbladers free use of the roads. This initiative has increased physical activity and fostered a sense of community among residents.

In essence, our personal experiences of physical activity are intricately woven into a tapestry of motivational, sociocultural, and environmental factors, contributing to the holistic understanding of kinesiology.  Understanding the diverse range of factors that influence individuals' attitudes and beliefs about physical activity is essential for promoting inclusive and effective strategies for increasing participation in active lifestyles.  In the next section we will take a look at some of the various ways we gain these experiences during different life stages.

REFERENCES:

Ekkekakis, P., Parfitt, G., and Petruzzello, S. J. (2011). The pleasure and displeasure people feel when they exercise at different intensities. Sport Med. 41, 641–671.

Giles-Corti, B., Timperio, A., Bull, F., & Pikora, T. (2005). Understanding physical activity environmental correlates: increased specificity for ecological models. Exercise and sport sciences reviews, 33(4), 175-181.

Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55, 68-78.