What time will be available for future participation? 

What are we seeing?  

• The COVID-19 pandemic and changing work attitudes have reshaped time use, leading to more flexible work and shifting leisure activities from city centres to suburbs for many but not all. 
• Non-work time use is diversifying, influenced by increased appreciation for nature and digitalisation, with social media both reducing traditional social activities and stimulating new forms of engagement.  
• There's a rising interest in "slow living" and self-organised recreation, with people seeking to simplify their lives, reduce stress, and engage in meaningful experiences, reflected in the popularity of activities like yoga. 

What can we expect?  

• Economic challenges may temporarily slow lifestyle changes, but long-term shifts in time use and work patterns are likely to persist, including a potential blurring of work-life boundaries. 
• Automation and AI will drive career changes and retraining, leading to varied impacts across industries and regions, while work may decrease in importance for some, but not for those in unstable employment. 
• Digital technologies will continue to influence leisure time, with potential improvements in augmented and virtual reality, while digital burnout may simultaneously drive trends towards digital detox. 

What might this mean for sport and recreation?  

• Sport and recreation will face increased competition from digital experiences, especially with immersive and augmented reality. Personalised options and wearable technology will lead to tailored experiences. 
• Shifts in work locations and schedules will influence where and how sport and recreation are accessed, emphasising local amenities and flexible options. This may affect participation in activities requiring travel. 
• Greater flexibility in work schedules could lead to diverse demand for physical activities, while time constraints may increase interest in high-intensity, shorter workouts.  

What questions should we be asking ourselves today?  

• How can activities and competitions be adapted to accommodate flexible schedules and changing work patterns, and how can digital tools and technologies be leveraged to enhance participation and inclusivity? 
• What new, flexible participation opportunities can be developed that appeal to a broad community, provide personal meaning and identity, and balance virtual engagement with real-world physical activity and social interactions? 
• How can partnerships with technology companies be fostered to create innovative solutions, and how can the increased awareness of nature's mental health benefits be capitalised on to promote outdoor activities?