Theoretical justification of the recreational potential of golf in engaging young people in recreational activities

Purpose. The study aims to theoretically substantiate the potential of golf as a means of engaging young people in regular recreational activity and to identify the organizational and pedagogical conditions for its implementation in the youth environment. Materials and Methods. The study employed analysis, systematization and generalization of scientific literature, regulatory and methodological materials, comparative analysis, and structural-functional analysis. The theoretical material was generalized from the perspective of contemporary approaches to youth recreational activity, physical activity, health preservation, and sports and recreational inclusion. To systematize the recreational potential of golf, five interrelated components were identified: physical, psycho-emotional, cognitive-volitional, social, and recreational-health-related. Based on the synthesis of relevant scientific concepts, a logical model of youth engagement in recreational activity through golf was developed. Results. The findings indicate that the recreational potential of golf is determined by the combination of moderate physical activity, prolonged exposure to an outdoor environment, requirements for concentration, decision-making and self-control, as well as opportunities for social interaction. The feasibility of differentiated organization of golf activities was substantiated, taking into account participants’ age and levels of physical and technical preparedness. Organizational and pedagogical conditions facilitating the accessibility and attractiveness of golf were identified, including the use of short game formats, practice stations and mini-golf, adaptation of equipment, and gradual progression of motor and technical tasks. A model was proposed that establishes a sequential relationship between the characteristics of golf, organizational and pedagogical conditions, development of the main components of recreational potential, and the formation of prerequisites for regular recreational activity among young people. Conclusions. Golf possesses a comprehensive recreational potential and can be considered a promising means of expanding opportunities for regular physical and recreational activity among young people. Its effective implementation requires adapted activity formats, accessible equipment, gradual development of technical skills, and conditions that facilitate social interaction. The proposed model can serve as a theoretical framework for further development and empirical testing of programs aimed at engaging young people in recreational activity through golf.