Abstract:
The purpose of this study were to study the peoples behavior and their demand to use the parks and sport grounds and to create guideline to develop healthy space in Bangkok metropolis. The methodology used herein included both quantitative and qualitative studies, as well as focus group discussion. Thereby, The quantitative study was conducted via questionnaire with a sampling group of 500 people and the qualitative study via the interview with 30 subjects. All of the subjects in both studies were those who live near the parks or sport grounds in a radius of 1 kilometer in 10 districts of Bangkok metropolis that have community parks and type-A sport grounds. Meanwhile, the focus group discussion was conducted with 4 specialists in their specific fields. The quantitative data were analyzed by means of frequency, percentage, standard deviation, t-test, F-test and multiple comparisons using LSD method, with the statistically significant difference at the 0.05. Meanwhile, The qualitative data were analyzed by means of content analysis. The results of this study were as follow: 1. The respondents behavior to use the park and sport ground was at moderate level (Mean = 2.15). 2. The respondents demand to use the park and sport ground was at moderate level (Mean = 3.40 and Mean = 3.49 respectively). Thereby, the sample group demanded a variety of activities in all periods of service, with learning activities for children/youth during the holidays or their free time. they also required the natural environment and security while using the equipment and facilities. In addition, there should be enough equipment and facilities with good maintenance so that all of them would be ready to use. 3. The guideline to develop healthy space should focus on the promotion of physical health, mental health, social health and spiritual health. This can be done by providing holistic health activities and encouraging the participation of community. Moreover, the locations should have both relaxed zone and various fitness areas or sports zones. The equipment, the facilities, and the authorities thereof should be provided sufficiently as a part of health promotion. Conclusions The respondents behavior to use the park and sport grounds was at moderate level, and they demanded the parks and sport grounds that have all holistic health services. Therefore, it was necessary to develop the parks and sport grounds in the ways that can satisfy their demand and increase their motivation to use the service therein and maintain healthy behavior.