The effect of regular recreational activities on adult women's stress, happiness, and life satisfaction levels

Abstract

Study Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of regular 10-week recreational activities on stress, happiness, and life satisfaction of adult women. Methods: The sample of the study consisted of 199 volunteer adult women who regularly participated to recreational activities (swimming and fitness) organized by Istanbul Spor Inc. In sampling selection, the purposive sampling method was preferred. In addition to demographic variables, Perceived Stress, Oxford Happiness, and Life Satisfaction scales were used as measurement tools. IBM Statistics 24 was used in the analysis of the data obtained. In the analysis of the data showing normal distribution, the Paired samples t-test was used for comparing two measurement times and Two-way Repeated Measures ANOVA was used for comparison of repeated measures with demographic variables. In addition, the formula [%Delta = (Post-Test - Pre-Test) / Pre-Test * 100] was used to deter ninethe effect of regular 10-week recreational activities on adult women's stress, happiness, and life satisfaction levels. Results: According to the main findings of the study, it was found that 10-week recreational activities reduced perceived stress levels of adult women by 33.57%, whereas happiness levels increased by 20.58% and life satisfaction levels by 14.39%. Conclusion: It was seen as a necessity to take part in regular recreational activities in order to get away from the stress of life and to live a happy life and to be satisfied with life. Thus, adult women can sustain a more effective life.