Extending the leisure substitutability concept

Leisure commitment has been studied for several decades now, but few attempts have been made to look at how leisurists benefit from participation in one activity when it comes to selecting another, but related, activity. The concept of leisure substitutability has been helpful in understanding what is entailed in switching activities, but does not address an important issue: how one leisure activity can potentially set up or introduce other leisure activities. The current work seeks to build on the leisure substitutability concept by showcasing the importance of past experience in making future leisure choices. The existence of a high level of participation in a leisure activity can create a space for the development of knowledge, skills or interests which may lead to a more fulfilling activity that better suits the individual’s life circumstances at that particular point in time, and may provide justification for abandonment or lessening of the former activity or affiliation