Identification and prioritization of factors influencing the utilization of natural spaces to enhance public participation in recreational and sports activities Hamedan city

Document Type : Research Paper I Open Access I Released under (CC BY-NC 4.0) license

Authors

Department of Sports Management, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Allameh Tabatabaei University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

The present study aimed to identify and prioritize factors influencing the utilization of natural spaces to enhance public participation in recreational sports activities in Hamadan. This research employed a sequential exploratory mixed-methods approach, involving interviews with 14 urban planning and sports management experts, followed by a quantitative analysis with 7 specialists. The qualitative thematic analysis identified 5 main categories planning and management, infrastructure, cultural development, innovation, and safety comprising 18 key components. Results from the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) categorized these factors into a four-level hierarchy. "Strategic Planning" emerged at the foundational level (Level 4) as the primary driving force. Level 3 encompassed mediating factors such as inter-organizational collaboration, technological development, and funding, while Level 2 consisted of operational components like infrastructure equipment, digital marketing, and content creation. Finally, Level 1 factors, including enhanced safety, accessibility, event innovation, and information dissemination, were identified as direct outcomes leading to increased public participation. The findings suggest that effective exploitation of Hamadan's natural assets, such as Mount Alvand and Arm Park, requires a transition from fragmented efforts to integrated management. It is recommended that the implementation of five-year strategic plans, the development of secure health trails, and the organization of seasonal festivals be prioritized to provide a sustainable framework for improving public health and urban livability.

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History

  • Receive Date: 25 January 2026
  • Revise Date: 27 February 2026
  • Accept Date: 03 August 2026

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