Policy decisions, or a lack of, alter perceptions of a sport not just in regards to how individuals view the sport as entertainment, but in the desire and ability to participate in or be associated with its programs. Most public policy issues do not receive any consideration on the perpetually overcrowded policy agenda because supporting stakeholders have not gained enough visibility for their issue or demonstrated a compelling enough reason to alter the status quo. In the United States, a lack of swimming policy has resulted in three significant concerns: Minority populations are significantly more likely to drown than more advantaged populations (i.e., white, affluent), one less avenue utilized for health enhancement during a time of increasing physical inactivity, and a smaller talent pool to develop elite swimmers for competitive success. This study aimed to highlight one community’s innovative swimming policies and suggest future solutions to correct the aforementioned social problems associated with current swimming participation rates.
Method:
Using a critical theory approach to underscore the historically entrenched perceptions and assumptions made towards swimming, evaluation of a free or low cost community-based “learn to swim” program as well as its companion developmental swim team program was the initial goal of this research. Research participants included developers (n=2), children (n=29) and their parent/caregivers (n=8) who took part in this program. The children completed pre/post-lesson questionnaires asking about their perceptions regarding swimming. McNemar’s Test was applied to determine pre/post intervention effects on all questions. Developers, eight parent/caregivers, and seven children participated in focus group interviews.
Analysis/Results:
All swimmers improved one or more American Red Cross swimming ability levels post-intervention. Perception statements on swimming issues also improved post-intervention with 12 of the 15 items tested calculating a significant difference. Focus group data themes from all groups included policy recommendations for access to public facilities, funding, and drowning/injury prevention.
Conclusions:
Results from this study identify the need for lifesaving community policy decisions regarding swimming as a means to ensure more just and non-discriminatory rules and regulations. Since the physical activity of swimming is a highly recommended form of exercise, a popular competitive sport, and a public health issue, there is a human imperative that all populations within a community should have access to municipal facilities to become capable swimmers. This study further illustrates the important role policy can play in a variety of sport and physical activity contexts.