ASPECTS OF SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL DIMENSIONS OF SPORTS TOURISM AS KEY INDICATORS OF ITS SYNERGISM

Abstract

The objective of the present study is to identify spatial and temporal aspects that enable the synergistic potential inherent in sports tourism. It relies on a theoretical framework based on the principles of open systems theory, synergetics, and systems thinking. This framework implies a flexible and multivalent interaction of various factors, including spatial layout, seasonality, infrastructure, and social context. The research builds the foundation for a deeper understanding of the scope, diversity, and structure of the sports tourism phenomenon. Facilitated by the proposed theoretical models, the research then relies on a qualitative analysis of secondary sources from scientific journals in the field of sports, tourism, and management in sports and tourism, with the application of a set of keywords. The findings indicate that the spatial dimension, encompassing aspects such as location, accessibility, landscape, and regional distribution, and the temporal dimension, including seasonality, duration, and development patterns of activities, serve as fundamental indicators in the conceptualization and theoretical underpinnings of sports tourism. These indicators facilitate the harmonization of intricate relationships within the sports tourism system. The discussion underscores the necessity for the establishment of flexible and adaptable models that facilitate synergy through the proposed sets of spatio-temporal aspects. These models are intended to promote sustainability, competitiveness, and resilience. Conclusions indicate the significance of incorporating elements of spatial and temporal dimensions into the planning process, thereby establishing the foundation for the formulation and advancement of sports tourism strategies that are oriented towards responsibility.