The dynamics of recreation and leisure have drastically evolved over the last few decades. The advent and fast improvement of technology have changed the way people interact with each other. In the past, people experienced leisure more organically by diving into situations and being actively involved. There were little or no variables that would help determine how a day would go or how enjoyable an experience would be. They just took it as it came. Today, it is a much different story. There is software that will tell you how the weather will be, whether there will be traffic, if that resort has good reviews and if the food at that new restaurant is worth the price tag. Even if one resolves to spend the day at home, there is an app to keep them amply entertained. The way we experience recreation and leisure has changed and it is all thanks to technology.
Ease Of Access to Information.
Technology has made certain kinds of information easily accessible. Today, before a person embarks on a hike, a picnic, or a run, it is necessary to check certain things like the weather. A rainy, foggy or extremely sunny day can put a dent in an enjoyable outdoor experience. It could even be dangerous. A simple app on a mobile smart device will provide all the information needed to plan a good day or avoid a bad one. This is a prime example of technology influencing simple recreational activities. Access to this kind of information was unprecedented in the past. Now, a weather forecast or traffic update can save an entire day. And there are apps for everything from circular training routines to nutrition information.
Communication.
One of the first major problems technology solved was that of communication. It became much easier for people to connect more easily regardless of distance. Today, communication has become more leisure than necessity, especially to certain age groups. Online group chats and communities have sprung up all over the world and people participate in these groups for a sense of fun as well as the community.
Entertainment.
Fewer areas of human life have been influenced by technology than that of entertainment. There is a smart device of any size for any occasion or environment that can provide any kind of entertainment needed. Televisions, radios, game consoles, and even the mobile phone is more than capable of keeping people well entertained. There is something for every age and interest. Movie buffs can get their fix and gamers can choose from an assortment of games on their consoles or online. More mature players can access other sites for high stake games.
Safety.
Recreation and leisure activities are safer now because of technology. As earlier mentioned, checking the weather on smart devices before embarking on any outdoor activities makes it less likely to go hiking on a rainy day. This also makes it less likely for a jogger to slip on slippery grounds and get hurt. Geolocation and GPS systems ensure that people can easily be found wherever they are. Because of this technological intervention, fewer cases of injuries and disappearances during recreational activities have been recorded in recent years.
The influence of technology on lifestyle today cannot be overemphasized. Smart devices are equipped with features designed to keep us informed. For most people, their mobile devices not only inform them but are a primary source of recreation, keeping them relaxed and entertained.
