Perceived Constraints towards Recreational Skiing Participation

Charilaos Kouthouris,1 Konstantinos Alexandris,2 Chrisi Yovani,1 & Evangelia Hatziyanni2

1Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Hellas

2Department of Physical Education & Sport Science, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hellas

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate: a) constraints on recreational skiing participation, as perceived by a sample of Greek skiers, b) possible differences in the perceptions of constraints among different demo- graphic groups. Four hundred and fifty eight (N=458) recreational skiers (62% males and 38% females) par- ticipated in the study. A modified version of the questioner developed by Alexandris & Carroll (1997a) was used. The results revealed six constraint dimensions: lack of interest, individual / psychological, facilities / services, lack of partners, financial / accessibility, lack of time. Furthermore, the results revealed statistical significant differences between a) single and married individuals in the financial / accessibility dimension and b) males and females in the individual / psychological constraints (p<.05). The results of the study sup- port that every different group of skiers must be confronted by different communication ways from ski re- sorts managers and according to theirs particular demographic characteristics.

Key words: perceived constraints, recreational ski, and demographic characteristics of Greek tourist skiers.