The Mediating Role of Recreational Flow Experience in the Relationship Between Connectedness to Nature and Leisure Satisfaction Among Outdoor Sports Participants

Abstract Aim: In the context of outdoor sports, the bond individuals form with nature, the flow experience during activities, and the resulting leisure satisfaction offer a potential relationship that may influence the psychological dimensions of participation and overall well-being. This study aimed to examine the mediating role of recreational flow experience in the relationship between connectedness to nature and leisure satisfaction among outdoor sports participants in Turkey. Method: Data was collected from 396 participants using online scales. The acquired data were examined utilizing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Results: The findings revealed that connectedness to nature significantly and positively influenced both recreational flow experience and leisure satisfaction. Additionally, recreational flow experience was found to positively affect leisure satisfaction. Most notably, recreational flow experience was identified as a significant mediator in the relationship between connectedness to nature and leisure satisfaction, indicating that the effect of connectedness to nature on leisure satisfaction is largely mediated through flow experience. Conclusion: Consequently, the study highlights the critical importance of the bond with nature and the flow experience in enhancing leisure satisfaction through outdoor sports, confirming the functionality of the proposed leisure satisfaction model. Recommendations: It is recommended that outdoor sports activities be designed to both enhance participants' interaction with nature and promote flow experiences.