Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Azarbaijan Shahid Madani University

10.22059/jsm.2023.353363.3089

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of the current research was to identify the development strategies for recreational and adventure sports tourism in Iran with the SOAR approach.

Methods: The method of current qualitative exploratory research was conventional content analysis. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 17 experts and activists of recreational and adventure sports, who were selected based on purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using open and axial coding. The validity of the codings was confirmed by reviewing and controlling the correctness of the extracted codes by two collaborating experts.

Results: Based on the findings, The components of diverse climatic capacity, supportive structure, and richness of human resources were included in the main theme of strengths. The components of popularity, socio-cultural support, regional position of Iran and economic advantage were stand in the main theme of opportunities. Also, public reception, financial development, expansion of health and the vitality and development of adventure sports at championship levels were in the main theme of aspirations, and finaly, the components of sports tourism development, job creation and business prosperity, improving the health status of community members, sustainable economic development and social development were categorized in the main theme of measurable results.

Conclusion: Paying attention to research and development, internal and external interactions, advertising development, management, and planning requirements, using the media platform, education, and culture, allocation of financial resources and economic support, development of infrastructure, and development of safety and security are basic strategies for the development of recreational and adventure sports tourism capacity.

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