Sports Participation and Value of Elite Sports in Predicting Well-Being

This work contributes to an emerging literature focused on the role of physical activity on the subjective well-being of populations. Unlike the existing literature, it proposes an approach that uses algorithms to predict subjective well-being. The aims of this study were to determine the relative importance of sports participation and perceived value of elite sports on the subjective well-being of individuals. A total of 511 participants completed an online questionnaire. The statistical analysis used several machine learning techniques, including three algorithms, Decision Tree Classifier (DTC), Random Forest Classifier (RFC), and Gradient Boosting Classifier (GBC). In the three algorithms tested, sports participation, expressed as the weekly frequency and the time spent engaging in vigorous physical activity, showed a greater importance (between 47% and 53%) in determining subjective well-being. It also highlights the effect of perceived value of elite sport on the prediction of subjective well-being. This study provides evidence for public sport policy makers/authorities and for managers of physical activity and sport development programs. The surprising effect of the perceived value of elite sport on the prediction of subjective well-being.

Tracking Systems Used to Monitor the Performance and Activity Profile in Elite Team Sports

Technology has become established in elite sport in recent years and is used on a regular basis, especially in team sports [...]

The Uneven Development of Sport Policy in India

Although there have been efforts to have a uniform set of guidelines to govern sport across the country, no national sports policy has had long-lasting or consistent effect in sports governance. This disconnect between National and State sports policies has meant that differing standards have been imposed on sports organisations across the country. Any attempt at creating an effective sports policy in India, Kruthika N.S. and Sarthak Sood argue, must first scrutinise the development and implementation of various state and national sports policies that have been codified in the past. This chapter aims to suggest recommendations on the themes to be tackled in an effective sports policy. India must urgently facilitate an ecosystem conducive for sports development, from the grassroots level to elite sport. Such a plan, especially with our nation of great inequalities, will require collective action by both the Centre and the States and should envisage a governance system that can sustain and embrace Indian sport.