Sports Participation versus Consumer Expenditure on Sport: Different Determinants and Strategies in Sports Management

Abstract

Abstract This paper aims to compare the demographic and sociocultural background variables and economic factors determining the frequency of sports participation and consumer expenditure on sports. Ordered probit and tobit models provide the methodological approach. From data based on a questionnaire survey in Spain, the empirical results indicate the need to use different sports management strategies in each area. The results confirm, for example, the influence of variables such as gender, age or occupation in frequency of sports participation, while consumer expenditure on sports is principally determined by gender, education and income level. Thus, traditional strategies, such as discount card schemes or subsidies, based on low prices to increase sports participation among low income groups, should be revised. Strategies should be adapted to meet the purpose either of encouraging committed participants or expanding the base of participants.