The excitement surrounding the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games (JOP) in 2024 has sparked a renewed interest in sports and physical activity among the French population. According to a study conducted by Odoxa for the French Mutualité in April 2024, 24% of French people and 42% of young people expressed a desire to take up or resume sports activities inspired by the upcoming Games.
The question arises: why do people decide to engage in sports such as table tennis, swimming, or running a half marathon? While the exceptional performances of athletes like Léon Marchand and the Lebrun brothers serve as inspiration, motivation for physical activity is a multi-dimensional concept. Julie Boiché, a professor-researcher at UFR Staps in Montpellier, explains that motivation is influenced by beliefs about the positive and negative effects of physical activity, the ability to change behavior based on personal experiences or social influences, and environmental factors.
One of the key motivators for engaging in sports is the desire to maintain good health. The study by the French Mutualité revealed that 71% of French people cited staying healthy as their primary motivation for participating in sports. Emma Guillet-Descas, a professor and researcher at the Laboratory of Vulnerabilities and Innovation in Sport at Lyon-I University, emphasizes the importance of self-determined motivation over external pressures or rewards in sustaining long-term engagement in physical activity.
Ultimately, the most crucial factor in maintaining a regular exercise routine is the enjoyment and pleasure derived from it. The National Observatory of Physical Activity and Sedentary Lifestyle (Onaps) highlights that the lack of fun and enjoyment is a significant barrier to motivating teenagers to participate in physical activities or sports. Therefore, creating a positive and enjoyable experience is essential for fostering a lasting commitment to physical activity.
While the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games may serve as a temporary catalyst for increased sports participation, the long-term impact remains uncertain. A review of scientific literature on mega-sporting events suggests that their influence on sports practices, elite athlete success, and public interest in sports may be limited or mixed.
In conclusion, the motivation to engage in sports and physical activity is a complex interplay of personal beliefs, social influences, and environmental factors. While major sporting events like the Paris Olympics can inspire individuals to pursue sports, the key to sustaining long-term participation lies in finding joy and fulfillment in physical activities.
