Elicitation using kit bag methods: Exploring embodied practice with female boxers

Abstract

In this paper, we present a novel qualitative research method that uses a boxer's kit bag and the items contained within, to explore the relationship that participants have with activity-specific material items. These immersive sensory encounters explore the participants’ experiences of interacting with their kit and how their kit contributes to identity formation and their sense of belonging in the boxing gym. This method contributes to the field of material methods and elicitation by using everyday objects to stimulate the expression of embodied experiences. By observing participants interacting with their boxing kit and encouraging reflective attention to how the body responds to each item, we can examine how objects can both promote a sense of belonging in the boxing gym and support the narration of transitions in and out of character. This method could be used to explore other sports, occupations or activities which require activity-specific objects.