Examining the sports commitment and self-efficacy of those who participate in traditional sports in their leisure

This study examined the relationship between sport commitment and athlete self-efficacy among individuals participating in traditional sports, while also exploring whether these variables differ across socio-demographic characteristics. Data collected from 245 participants showed that both scales demonstrated high reliability (α>.96). No significant differences were found in commitment or self-efficacy across gender, age, education level, or occupation; however, holding a sport license, engaging in traditional sports, longer sport experience, and having experienced a sport-related injury were associated with significantly higher levels of commitment and self-efficacy. Participants with over eight years of experience exhibited particularly elevated scores in all dimensions. The most prominent finding revealed a strong and positive correlation between sport commitment and athlete self-efficacy (r=.805). This indicates that individuals who internalize and invest emotionally and cognitively in sport tend to perceive themselves as more competent psychologically, technically, and professionally. Overall, the results suggest that participation in traditional sports plays an important role in strengthening athletes' psychological engagement and self-efficacy beliefs.