Exploratory Study on Motivational Factors in Recreational Sports: A Gender and Region-based Analysis of Students at Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City

The importance of recreational sports for overall human development is widely acknowledged. These activities provide numerous physical, mental, and social benefits, particularly for students. Problem Statement: While the general benefits of recreational sports are recognized, less is understood about the specific motivational factors driving student participation, particularly concerning the influence of gender and regional background. This study addresses this gap by investigating how these factors shape students' motivation to engage in recreational sports.

This study focuses on understanding the motivational factors influencing recreational sports participation among students at Vietnam National University - Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCMC), specifically examining the role of gender and regional background. Material and Methods: The research involved a sample of 918 students (455 males and 463 females) aged 18-22 from VNU-HCMC. Motivation was measured using the standardized ATPA-D questionnaire.

The findings revealed that health, enjoyment, and social interaction are the three primary motivators for students' participation in recreational sports. However, significant differences were observed among subgroups. Male students prioritized social interaction, while female students placed higher importance on health benefits. Interestingly, aesthetics was a more significant motivator for female students from the North compared to those from the South and Central regions. The competitive aspect was more appealing to male students from the South. This trend was mirrored among female students, with those from the South and Central regions showing greater interest in competition than those from the North. Discussion: Despite the observed gender and region-based differences, the study also highlights similarities in recreational sports participation motives among young people across Vietnam. This suggests that regional background is not the sole determinant of recreational sports choices among VNU-HCMC students.

The study provides valuable insights into the diverse motivational factors influencing recreational sports participation among students. Understanding these factors, particularly the nuances related to gender and regional background is crucial for promoting and developing inclusive and engaging recreational sports programs.