Why Didn’t They Come? An Examination of the Intention-Behavior Gap in Campus Recreation

International students are less likely than their domestic peers to participate in campus recreation, despite the well-documented benefits for well-being and integration. While previous research has explored constraints to participation, few studies have examined the gap between intention and behavior, specifically, why students who register for programs do not attend. This qualitative study investigated that question through semi-structured interviews with eight international students at a Canadian university who registered for, but did not attend, a recreation program. While students expressed strong initial motivations, various post-registration factors disrupted follow-through. Using thematic analysis, the study identified three key themes that explain the intention-behavior gap: structural constraints, motivational decline and competing priorities, and interpersonal constraints. These findings offer new insight into how participation can be supported beyond recruitment. Practical recommendations are offered to help campus recreation professionals reduce drop-off and foster more inclusive, accessible programs.