Exploring Design Requirements of Outdoor Fitness Equipment for Young People


Karadeniz A., Dursun M., Töre Yargın G.

AHFE: International Conference on Applied Human Factors and Ergonomics, Washington, United States Of America, 24 - 28 July 2019, pp.628-639 identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Conference Paper / Full Text
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/978-3-030-20227-9_59
  • City: Washington
  • Country: United States Of America
  • Page Numbers: pp.628-639
  • Keywords: Physical activity, Outdoor Fitness Equipment (OFE), Cultural probes, Product design, PHYSICAL-ACTIVITY, OLDER-ADULTS, HEALTH, PARKS, IMPACT, GYM
  • Middle East Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Outdoor Fitness Equipment (OFE) can support public health by making physical activity available to all segments of the society. However, our knowledge is limited regarding how young people can adopt this equipment. Therefore, this study set out to explore (1) motivators of young people to do sports, (2) their perspective towards being physically active outside and (3) how to increase their outdoor physical activity level and OFE usage through design. Therefore, a cultural probes study and interviews were conducted with twelve participants aged between 20–30 years old, who do sports at home or gym. As a result, three types of needs were identified namely personal, social and practical needs. Moreover, design requirements are identified which are focusing on equipment, space, and service. As a result, this study provides brief guidance for designers and urban planners to meet young people’s needs about doing sport outside.