Recreational tennis is more than just hitting a ball over the net—it is a social, psychological, and physical experience. According to a recent study by Karakullukcu et al. (2025) entitled “Re-participation intention in individuals playing tennis for recreational purposes: investigation of differences based on low and high involvement” (Frontiers in Psychology, 16, 10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1546405), people who perceive tennis as an important part of their leisure time (high involvement) are much more likely to stay committed long-term than those with a lower personal attachment.
High Involvement vs. Low Involvement
In the study, participants were grouped according to their level of “involvement,” meaning the extent to which they identify with and value tennis as a key leisure pursuit:
High Involvement: Tennis is viewed as central to their lifestyle, bringing them purpose, enjoyment, and identity.
Low Involvement: Participants see tennis as a fun but less critical activity, without a deep emotional or personal investment.
Analyses showed that people in the high-involvement group consistently expressed a stronger intention to keep playing tennis. Their enjoyment, social bonds, and perceived benefits propelled them to rejoin or continue in the sport.
Re-Participation Intentions: The Power of Personal Meaning
A standout discovery in this research is that a strong personal connection—often called leisure involvement—correlates with higher re-participation rates. In other words, if tennis feels meaningful to participants, they develop deeper loyalty and motivation to keep coming back.
Key factors contributing to this involvement include:
Social Connectivity: Training partners, friendly matches, group events.
Sense of Achievement: Skills gained, personal progress, measurable goals.
Physical and Mental Benefits: Stress relief, fitness improvements, self-confidence.
Implications for Other Racket Sports
These findings have practical implications beyond tennis. Sports like squash, badminton, padel, or table tennis share similar structures and social elements. The “involvement effect” often looks the same:
Higher Involvement = Greater Willingness to Continue
Social and Emotional Investment = Higher Satisfaction
Whether you run a club or organize a league, creating a community spirit and showcasing the benefits of participation can help transition casual players into deeply engaged, long-term participants.
Practical Recommendations
Based on the study (Karakullukcu et al., 2025), organizations or facilities looking to increase sustained participation might:
Encourage Social Interaction: Host regular meet-ups, small tournaments, and group training sessions that foster friendships.
Highlight Personal Benefits: Promote well-being, physical fitness, and stress relief to enhance the perceived value of playing.
Reward Progress: Offer skill-based programs or progress tracking to help players feel a sense of accomplishment.
Build a Welcoming Culture: Emphasize inclusivity and fun, ensuring new or casual participants feel comfortable and motivated.
Full Reference to the Study
For a comprehensive exploration of the research methods, statistical analyses, and additional discussion on tennis involvement levels, refer to the full paper:
Karakullukcu, O. F., Ayhan, C., Kalkan, T., Okudan, B., Talaghir, L.-G., & Iconomescu, T. M. (2025). Re-participation intention in individuals playing tennis for recreational purposes: investigation of differences based on low and high involvement. Frontiers in Psychology, 16, 1546405. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1546405
Conclusion
In short, making tennis (and related racket sports) personally meaningful goes a long way in keeping participants engaged. The study by Karakullukcu and colleagues serves as a valuable resource for coaches, sport managers, and enthusiasts looking to strengthen community ties and foster an environment where players remain active and committed. By embracing strategies that bolster involvement, facilities can elevate not just individual satisfaction but also the overall vitality of recreational racket sports.
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