Research on the Integration of Taekwondo Club Resources in Jinan City Based on SWOT Analysis

Abstract

Background and Aim: With the rapid development of sports culture and the national emphasis on fitness initiatives, Taekwondo clubs in Jinan City have proliferated, yet face challenges such as resource fragmentation, uneven service quality, and market competition. Against this backdrop, integrating Taekwondo club resources has become crucial for enhancing operational efficiency, promoting sports participation, and fostering sustainable urban sports development. This study employs SWOT analysis to systematically evaluate the internal strengths and weaknesses, as well as external opportunities and threats, in the integration of Taekwondo club resources in Jinan. The aim is to propose actionable strategies to optimize resource allocation, strengthen stakeholder collaboration, and amplify the social and economic value of Taekwondo in the region.

Materials and Methods: This study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 Taekwondo club managers, surveys of 200 club members, and field observations at 30 clubs in Jinan. The qualitative data from interviews and observations were analyzed using thematic coding to identify key themes related to the clubs' strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Quantitative data from surveys were analyzed using descriptive statistics and factor analysis. Secondary data, such as government policies, market reports, and academic literature, were also reviewed to provide context. The findings were categorized into four dimensions: Strengths (e.g., cultural appeal, existing networks), Weaknesses (e.g., funding issues, inconsistent coaching), Opportunities (e.g., government support, youth fitness campaigns), and Threats (e.g., competition from other martial arts). Cross-case analysis was used to identify patterns and guide strategic recommendations.

Results: The SWOT analysis reveals several key findings regarding the Taekwondo clubs in Jinan. Strengths include Taekwondo's strong cultural recognition in the city, supported by established community engagement models that resonate with residents. Weaknesses identified include fragmented resource distribution and a lack of standardized management across clubs, which hampers operational efficiency. Additionally, there is insufficient collaboration between clubs, limiting potential synergies. On the opportunity front, alignment with Shandong Province's sports industry policies presents significant potential for growth, along with the increasing demand for youth physical education, as seen in both survey data and policy support. However, the threats of market saturation and rising operational costs post-pandemic pose challenges to the sustainability of many clubs. Key integration strategies based on both qualitative insights and quantitative analysis suggest forming regional club alliances, leveraging digital platforms for resource sharing, and collaborating with schools to establish Taekwondo-themed extracurricular programs. Case studies show that these integration strategies could lead to a 25-30% improvement in cost efficiency and significantly increase participant retention rates.

Conclusion: This study underscores the viability of SWOT analysis as a tool for optimizing Taekwondo club resource integration in Jinan. Strategic collaboration among clubs, government bodies, and educational institutions can mitigate weaknesses and capitalize on opportunities, fostering a cohesive Taekwondo ecosystem. The findings advocate for policy interventions to standardize coaching certification, subsidize shared facilities, and promote Taekwondo as part of Jinan’s cultural identity. Future research should explore the role of digital technologies (e.g., VR training platforms) and evaluate long-term socio-economic impacts of integrated sports resource models.