Research Background: Digital sports and virtual reality technology have attracted widespread attention from researchers in recent years. By combining visual and interactive appeal, these technologies have become powerful tools for promoting physical activity and sports. Among the most important benefits of these technologies is to motivate sedentary individuals and provide a less traditional environment for exercising. Especially for women, who may face limitations in traditional sports environments, these technologies provide new opportunities for participation. (Smith,2021). concluded in a study that the use of virtual reality in sports programs, in addition to increasing women's motivation and participation, also improves their sports experience. In this regard, (Yang,2021). also examined the effects of virtual reality on women's physical activity and social interactions and concluded that these technologies can provide opportunities for women to exercise in a more comfortable and safe environment.

However, research has shown that these technologies face significant barriers for many women, especially in developing countries or traditional societies. Jonzo, (2020) showed in their research that cultural and social barriers can have a negative impact on women’s access to digital sports technologies. They specifically pointed to social and cultural attitudes in different societies that create restrictions on women’s participation in digital sports. Algamadi, (2021) also believe that lack of awareness of digital technologies and traditional attitudes, especially in Eastern societies, are among the most important barriers to women’s use of digital sports and virtual reality.

Globally, research has shown that the use of digital sports is much more convenient in urban communities and developed countries due to access to the necessary infrastructure. Zhou, (2022) studied the differences in access to these technologies in urban and rural communities and concluded that women in rural communities are unable to take advantage of these technologies due to infrastructure limitations and access to the Internet and digital equipment.

Domestically, various studies have emphasized the specific challenges faced by Iranian women in using digital sports. Kamali, (2023) reported that the high cost of equipment and the lack of technological infrastructure are among the most important economic barriers that prevent Iranian women from accessing digital sports. Also, Rahimi, (2022) have examined the role of social media in increasing motivation and creating support networks in their research and have shown that social media can act as an effective tool for promoting digital sports among women.

Mokhtari, (2020) also concluded in their research that digital sports and virtual reality can be especially effective in reducing stress and improving women's mental health. This research shows that by using these technologies, women can have an experience of sports without social and cultural pressure, which directly affects their increased participation.

Foster, (2021) have also examined the social effects of digital sports among women and believe that creating positive and supportive social networks in the digital space can play an important role in promoting these types of activities among women. Lee, (2023) also emphasized that despite women’s willingness to use digital technologies for sports, cultural and social barriers remain a major challenge in this field.

Finally, Firth, (2022) examined the impact of social support and educational programs on facilitating women’s access to sports technologies in a study. They suggested that by providing appropriate educational and support infrastructure, women’s participation in digital sports can be significantly increased.

Given this background, the present study specifically addresses the specific conditions of Iran and accurately identifies obstacles and challenges, and attempts to provide solutions to facilitate women's access to digital sports and virtual reality, thereby providing a basis for their greater participation in these types of activities. This study can be a valuable basis for policies and support programs aimed at developing digital sports and achieving gender equality in access to sports facilities.

RESULTS

The present study is a mixed research that uses the grounded theory approach with the Glazery, (1992) approach in the qualitative part, which is conducted in the form of interviews and content and structural analysis of the interviews.

The statistical population of this study consisted of managers active in the field of sports and women's sports, experts and specialists in technology, electronic games and virtual reality, which included about 120 people. The sampling method was snowball and continued until theoretical saturation (17).

Semi-structured interview: "The semi-structured formal interview is one of the main data collection methods in grounded theory and in some research it is the only data collection method (Adib Haj Bagheri, 2006). Therefore, in this study, semi-structured interview was used to collect data in the qualitative part.

After identifying the sub-themes of all interviews, a total of 168 sub-themes were created. A number of these codes that were similar and repeated in different interviews were eliminated, so that 112 independent codes (sub-themes) were created in the analysis phase. Based on the results of the axial coding and common concepts between the categories, 20 categories were identified with the titles of economic barriers, cost of digital equipment, lack of access to technological infrastructure, cultural constraints, gender attitudes in sports, limited social support, access to supportive social networks, low awareness of new technologies, social barriers, security and privacy concerns in the digital space, job and social opportunities in digital sports, the impact of social media on women's participation, the role of family and social support in the acceptance of digital sports, social acceptance of new technologies in sports, women's positive experience of using virtual reality, the role of educational programs in facilitating access, digital education and skills for women, government infrastructure for the development of digital sports, cultural and social experiences in the acceptance of digital sports, and support for policymakers in facilitating women's access to digital sports(Table 1).

In order to draw the final research model, after extracting and exploring the main, central categories and concepts, according to the presented model, which was designed based on the Strauss and Corbin school model, the model of challenges and solutions for facilitating Iranian women's access to digital sports and virtual reality technology is as follows (Figure 1).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The results of the coding showed that the model is based on various factors. Therefore, when the mechanism of action of these factors is correctly identified and recognized, we can witness the facilitation of Iranian women's access to digital sports and virtual reality technology and increased participation in active leisure sports activities. In the following, we will discuss these factors separately;

Economic barriers are among the main factors limiting Iranian women's access to digital sports and virtual reality technology. These barriers include high equipment costs, lack of financial ability to participate in related programs, limited family budgets for sports and entertainment, and lack of financial support from government and private institutions.

Equipment related to digital sports and virtual reality, such as virtual reality glasses, game consoles, and digital sports software, have significant costs that often exceed the financial capacity of middle- and low-income families. In addition, the lack of support programs such as subsidies, purchase facilities, or tax reduction policies for these equipment makes access to these technologies more difficult.

In Iran, much of the technological infrastructure is lacking in underserved and rural areas, and the high cost of high-speed internet access is another obstacle. Also, investment in sports is more focused on traditional disciplines, and digital sports receive less financial and promotional support.

According to a review of related studies and articles, economic barriers have a significant impact on limiting Iranian women’s access to digital sports. Smith, (2021) have emphasized in their research that the high cost of digital equipment is the main obstacle to expanding women’s participation. Also, Jones, (2020) have shown that in middle- and low-income societies, women cannot benefit from these technologies due to financial constraints. Kamali, (2023) have pointed out economic barriers, such as the high price of equipment and lack of government support, in a domestic study and have emphasized that the allocation of subsidies and financial facilities can play an effective role in reducing these barriers.

Therefore, it is suggested that policymakers reduce economic barriers by creating support programs such as subsidies for equipment purchases, providing banking facilities for interested women, and investing in technology infrastructure in disadvantaged areas. The results of the above articles show that such measures can lead to increased participation of women in digital sports, improve their physical and mental health, and strengthen social justice in access to technology.

Cultural restrictions are one of the major challenges in facilitating Iranian women’s access to digital sports and virtual reality technology. These restrictions are related to beliefs, values, and social norms related to the role and status of women in society. Many of these beliefs are shaped by traditional attitudes, gender stereotypes, and misunderstandings of the nature of digital sports.

In Iran, some societies still face cultural restrictions on women’s activities in the fields of technology and sports. Concerns such as the incompatibility of digital sports with cultural norms, conservative attitudes towards the presence of women in public sports environments, and the misconception of these technologies as a purely entertainment tool are among the main barriers. Also, the lack of sufficient awareness about the benefits of these technologies in promoting women's physical and mental health has resulted in insufficient support from families and society. In addition, the media and advertising have also paid less attention to women in digital sports and have presented a limited image of women's role in this field. These factors have led to a decrease in women's motivation to participate in these activities and increased cultural barriers.

A review of studies and research shows that cultural restrictions have a significant impact on women's access to digital sports and virtual reality technology. Jones, (2020) concluded in a study that negative social attitudes and gender stereotypes are the main cultural barriers to expanding women's participation in these areas. Rahimi, (2022) showed in an internal study that education and awareness-raising for families and society can play an important role in reducing these restrictions. Also, Smith, (2021) emphasized that using successful female role models in this area can change attitudes and increase women's motivation to participate.

To reduce cultural restrictions, policymakers and social activists can implement the following measures:

• Widely raising awareness of the benefits of digital sports and new technologies through mass media and social networks.
• Providing successful female role models in this area to strengthen motivation and change attitudes.
• Family education programs to increase community understanding of the importance of digital sports.
• Support for women-specific sports programs in culturally appropriate settings.

The results of the aforementioned articles show that by changing cultural and social attitudes and removing existing restrictions, women’s access to digital sports and virtual reality can be improved and their participation in these areas can be increased. This, in turn, will help improve women’s mental and physical health and reduce the gender gap in the fields of sports and technology.

Gendered attitudes in sports are one of the major barriers that limit Iranian women’s access to digital sports and virtual reality technology. These attitudes are based on traditional stereotypes about the roles and abilities of women and men, which are especially prevalent in conservative societies.

Gendered attitudes are often based on the assumption that sports, especially technology-related sports, are more suitable for men and that women do not have the ability or interest to participate in these areas. These beliefs prevent families and society from providing the necessary support for women to access digital sports and related technologies. Women may also face discrimination or ridicule in digital sports environments, which reduces their motivation. In Iran, gender attitudes, in addition to cultural and social influences, also affect policymaking and resource allocation. The lack of sufficient budget and facilities for women-related sports, insufficient media attention to the presence of women in digital sports, and the lack of successful female role models in this area are all consequences of gender attitudes.

Studies have shown that gender attitudes can pose a serious barrier to women’s participation in digital sports and virtual reality technology. Jones, (2020) concluded in a study that traditional attitudes about women’s roles limit their access to sports technologies and that these attitudes need to be modified through educational and awareness-raising programs. Smith, (2021) emphasized that changing gender attitudes requires creating supportive sports environments and encouraging women’s presence in these spaces.

In Iran, Kamali, (2023) showed that gender stereotypes prevent women from receiving equal sports resources and suggested that policymakers should reduce these barriers by providing financial and cultural support. Also, Rahimi, (2022) showed in a study that women’s presence on social media can help change attitudes and increase their participation in sports.

To address gendered attitudes, the following suggestions could be effective:

• Public education and awareness-raising through the media to reduce gender stereotypes.
• Creating successful female role models in the field of digital sports to encourage and inspire other women.
• Policy-making to allocate sports resources equally between women and men.
• Encouraging families and schools to support women’s participation in technology-related sports.
• Organizing special women’s competitions and events in digital sports and virtual reality technology.

The results of these measures could lead to reducing gendered attitudes and increasing Iranian women’s access to digital sports and virtual reality technology, and ultimately, contribute to achieving gender justice and improving women’s mental and physical health.

One of the key challenges in facilitating Iranian women’s access to digital sports and virtual reality technology is the lack of access to appropriate technology infrastructure. Technology infrastructure includes digital equipment, high-speed internet, dedicated spaces for digital sports activities, and related educational services. The lack of this infrastructure can be a major obstacle for women, especially in rural and underserved areas where access to technology is more limited. These limitations are significant not only geographically but also economically, as the provision of advanced equipment such as virtual reality devices and related software is costly. In addition, Iranian women often have less access to specialized technology centers due to cultural and social constraints, which leads to a decrease in their participation in this field. Also, the lack of technical knowledge and awareness of the benefits and applications of digital sports among users and officials is another reason for the weakness of the technology infrastructure. In some cases, even in areas where basic infrastructure exists, women’s lack of familiarity with how to use these technologies prevents them from benefiting from these facilities.

Various studies have confirmed that limited access to technology infrastructure is one of the main reasons for the lack of women’s participation in digital sports. Zhuo (2022) showed that in rural and underserved areas, the lack of technology infrastructure and high-speed internet are major barriers to women’s participation in technology-related activities. They suggested that governments should allocate more budgets and resources to develop infrastructure in these areas.

Smith, (2021) emphasized that even in developed societies, access to technology infrastructure is challenging for low-income groups, and solutions such as renting equipment or creating public digital sports centers can help improve the situation.

In Iran, Kamali, (2023) reported that the lack of centers equipped with sports technology and the high cost of digital equipment are two key factors limiting women's access to digital sports. Also, Rahimi, (2022) showed that developing high-speed internet in deprived areas and providing technology training to women can help increase their participation.

The following are suggested to increase women's participation in these activities:

• Developing technology infrastructure in underserved areas: Providing high-speed internet, digital equipment, and equipped centers.
• Financial support and provision of facilities: Reducing the cost of equipment by providing credit facilities or government subsidies.
• Establishing public digital sports centers: Creating dedicated spaces for women to use sports technologies.
• Holding technology training courses: Teaching how to use digital sports and learning about its benefits.
• Raising awareness and advertising: Encouraging women to use technology through media and social networks.

Implementing these suggestions could lead to reducing the infrastructure gap and increasing Iranian women’s participation in digital sports and virtual reality technology. These measures will not only increase the productivity of existing infrastructure, but will also contribute to the development of women’s physical and mental health and promote social justice in the long run.

On the other hand, digital sports and virtual reality technology, due to their unique capabilities, can play a role as a tool for creating job opportunities and improving the social status of Iranian women. By breaking the traditional and physical boundaries of sports, these technologies have provided a new platform for sports, educational, recreational, and professional activities.

In terms of job opportunities, women can participate in the areas of designing and producing digital sports content, managing digital sports-related projects, online coaching, and even entrepreneurship in the service and sales sector of digital sports equipment. Also, the increasing demand for training and technical support professionals in the use of virtual reality technologies provides more job opportunities for women. In terms of social opportunities, digital sports can help women strengthen their support communities and establish more effective social connections through online sports social networks. The use of these technologies in sports events can allow women to work not only as users, but also as coaches, planners, or facilitators in the field of sports and play a more prominent role in society. These opportunities can help improve the social status of women and reduce gender inequalities, especially in societies like Iran where there are cultural and social barriers to women's participation in sports and related activities.

Various studies show that digital technologies and virtual reality can directly and indirectly create career and social opportunities for women:

Smith, (2021) emphasized that digital sports have provided a platform for online coaching and training activities, which is particularly effective for women who face geographical or cultural constraints. Jones, (2020) showed that the use of virtual reality in sports has provided an opportunity for women to play a role in the planning of sports events and the creation of virtual sports communities. Algamadi, (2021) emphasized that digital technologies facilitate social connections between women and strengthen the possibility of creating social support networks in virtual communities.

In Iran, Kamali, (2023) showed that women can work in the educational, technical services, and sports content production sectors through digital sports, thereby improving both their social status and income. Rahimi, (2022) found that social media and digital sports are effective tools for promoting women’s sports activities and expanding their role in society.

To achieve the above, the following are proposed:

• Technology-related job skills training: Providing training courses for women in the design, management, and use of digital sports technologies.
• Creating online sports social platforms: Supporting the creation of sports social networks to exchange experiences and improve women’s social status.
• Financing for female entrepreneurs: Allocating facilities and financial support for women interested in working in the field of digital sports.
• Organizing digital competitions and events: Encouraging women’s participation in digital sports competitions and festivals with the aim of increasing their visibility and social credibility.
• Encouraging employers to hire women: Providing benefits to organizations and employers that hire women in digital sports-related projects.

Implementing these measures can bring the following achievements:

• Improving the status of women in the digital sports industry.
• Increasing women’s financial and economic independence.
• Strengthening social connections and networking among women.
• Reducing gender inequalities in sports and technology.
• Improving women’s quality of life through greater participation in social and sports activities.

Another fundamental challenge to facilitating Iranian women’s access to digital sports and virtual reality technology is limited awareness of these technologies and the opportunities they create. The lack of sufficient knowledge about the benefits, use, and applications of digital sports and virtual reality has prevented many Iranian women, especially in less developed regions, from taking advantage of these opportunities. This is due not only to a lack of information, but also to the lack of appropriate educational programs and support networks that can promote this awareness.

In this study, based on the results, four dimensions have been identified for this challenge, which are:

• Limited familiarity with technologies: Many women does not have sufficient information about various digital sports technologies and their applications.
• Lack of educational resources: Resources that can provide useful and practical information about these technologies are very limited in the local language and with a focus on women's needs.
• Unequal access to information: In rural and underserved areas, access to the Internet and information resources is lower than in urban areas, which exacerbates this information gap.
• Lack of effective promotion: Insufficient introduction of digital sports and virtual reality technology at the level of media and social networks, especially for women, has led to a decrease in public awareness.

To address the problem of low awareness of new technologies, targeted educational programs, widespread information, and easy access to information should be provided to women. Various studies also indicate the importance of increasing awareness in this area.

Smith, (2021) also emphasized in their research that educational programs and workshops related to digital sports can have a significant impact on improving users’ knowledge. They found that targeted education directly increases women’s participation in digital sports. Jones, (2020) showed that lack of educational resources and lack of familiarity with the applications of virtual reality technology are one of the main reasons for women’s low participation in this field. Ahmadi, (2021) noted that educating women in communities with limited access can make a significant difference in sports attitudes and behaviors. Kamali, (2023) in Iran concluded that many Iranian women are less inclined to use these technologies due to their ignorance of the benefits of digital sports. They emphasized the need to develop indigenous educational programs. and Rahimi, (2022) found that using social media and producing appropriate educational content can help increase women's awareness of new sports technologies.

• Creating localized training workshops: Providing training courses related to digital sports and virtual reality technology with an emphasis on women's needs.
• Producing free online educational content: Creating platforms that provide educational resources in simple language and with free access.
• Promoting through media and social networks: Widely promoting digital sports on media and social networks popular with women.
• Developing educational resources in rural areas: Providing information and training in less-privileged areas with the help of local educational centers.
• Holding public information campaigns: Implementing national programs to inform women about the opportunities available in digital sports technologies.

The above are practical suggestions for increasing the awareness of Iranian women regarding increasing women's participation in digital sports and virtual reality technology, which, if implemented, will have the following achievements:

• Improving women's digital literacy in society.
• Reducing the information gap between urban and rural areas.
• Increasing women's self-confidence to enter technological and sports fields.
• Creating sustainable educational infrastructures for future generations.

In the past decade, social media has become one of the powerful tools influencing the behaviors and attitudes of individuals in different societies. In the field of digital sports and virtual reality technology, these media play a key role in raising awareness, motivating, and facilitating access for individuals, especially women. In Iran, where cultural and social restrictions can prevent women from participating in sports activities, social media is very important as a platform to overcome these restrictions and provide alternative solutions.

In this study, the impact of social media on women and digital sports was presented in the following dimensions:

• Increasing awareness and education: Social media is a suitable tool for publishing educational content and informing about the benefits and how to use digital sports technologies. Women can gain more information through videos, educational articles, and webinars.
• Motivation and encouragement: Sharing success stories, personal experiences of users, and positive outcomes from digital sports on social networks increases women’s motivation to participate in this field.
• Networking and community building: Social media provide a space to connect with other people interested in digital sports. These networks can strengthen a sense of belonging and social support among women.
• Removing geographical and cultural limitations: By providing a digital environment, social media reduces geographical barriers and some cultural limitations and provides opportunities for participation for women living in disadvantaged areas.
• Promoting a positive image of women’s sports: Through promotional activities, these media can improve traditional attitudes towards women’s sports and introduce it as a natural and beneficial activity in society.

As a result, social media plays a vital role in changing attitudes and increasing Iranian women’s participation in digital sports and virtual reality technology. Several studies have confirmed this effect:

Smith, (2021) showed that social networks can help increase public awareness of digital sports by providing engaging and relevant content. They found that women are more likely to use these technologies through inspirational content. (Rahimi,2022). concluded in a study in Iran that social media can act as an effective advertising tool to attract women’s attention to digital sports. They emphasized that increasing local content and localizing information is essential for greater impact.

Jones, (2020) emphasized that social media can reduce social and cultural barriers and increase women's sense of self-confidence by facilitating access to support networks. Aglamadi (2021) found that sharing positive experiences on social networks has led to a wave of interest in digital sports among women. Kamali, (2023) noted in their internal research that Iranian women have been able to overcome cultural and social restrictions and increase their participation in sports activities by using educational and promotional content on social networks.

According to the results of the research, the following suggestions are made for the effective use of social media:

• Creating extensive advertising campaigns: Designing national campaigns focusing on raising awareness and attracting women to digital sports.
• Producing educational and motivational content: Providing videos, podcasts, and webinars that help women become familiar with the benefits of these technologies.
• Creating online support groups and networks: Setting up virtual communities for interaction and exchange of experiences among users.
• Localizing content: Using local language and culture in producing content related to digital sports.
• Collaborating with social influencers: Using influencers to promote digital sports and virtual reality technology.

If the suggestions are implemented, the following achievements are expected:

• Increasing women's participation in digital sports through awareness and encouragement.
• Changing cultural attitudes towards women's sports with the help of positive advertising content.
• Improving women's physical and mental health through participation in digital sports.
• Developing supportive social networks for female athletes.
• Expanding social and geographical justice in access to new sports technologies.

One of the fundamental pillars for the development of new technologies, including digital sports and virtual reality, is government infrastructure. Through policymaking, investment, and infrastructure development, governments can play a vital role in promoting access to these technologies and facilitating the participation of target groups, especially women. In Iran, where economic, social, and cultural barriers are major challenges, providing appropriate government infrastructure can provide a platform for greater participation of women in digital sports.

According to the results of the research, the dimensions of the role of government infrastructure in the development of digital sports were categorized as follows:

• Investment in technology and equipment: Governments can provide women with access to these tools by providing financial resources to purchase equipment and develop digital sports technologies. Currently, many Iranian women cannot benefit from these technologies due to high costs.
• Creating equipped sports spaces: Establishing or equipping sports centers with modern technologies, such as sports simulators and virtual reality systems, can help women access these facilities.
• Government training programs: Providing free or low-cost training courses aimed at educating women in the use of digital sports and related technologies is one way to empower this group.
• Promoting digital sports through state media: State media can increase public awareness of the benefits of digital sports and virtual reality and reduce negative cultural attitudes by advertising and producing educational content.
• Creating supportive policies: Establishing supportive laws and policies, such as tax incentives for businesses related to digital sports or providing low-interest loans for the purchase of equipment, can facilitate women's access to these technologies.

Smith, (2021) showed that governments can help promote women’s participation in digital sports by investing in technological infrastructure. They emphasized that the presence of equipped digital sports centers has increased participation by 40% among women in developing countries. Jones, (2020) stated that government policies in Scandinavian countries, including the provision of free education and widespread access to digital sports facilities, have significantly reduced the gender gap in digital sports.

Kamali, (2023) in Iran concluded that the lack of government centers equipped with digital technologies is one of the main factors behind the low participation of Iranian women in modern sports. The research emphasized that the construction of digital sports spaces can increase women’s participation rates by up to 30%. Rahimi, (2022) noted that government training programs and the provision of free or low-cost equipment in some provinces of Iran have had a significant positive impact on women’s familiarity with digital sports technologies. Aglamadi, (2021) found that in Middle Eastern countries, strengthening government infrastructure related to digital sports has led to a reduction in the gender gap and increased public health.

Developing government infrastructure is a key factor in increasing Iranian women’s participation in digital sports and virtual reality technology. Through targeted policies, investments in equipment and facilities, and the creation of educational opportunities, governments can reduce existing barriers, including high costs and access restrictions. International and domestic research shows that government measures, including the creation of digital sports spaces and the implementation of awareness-raising programs, can have a positive impact on women’s participation.

By taking advantage of the experience of successful countries and adapting it to Iranian conditions, we can expect that:

• The rate of women’s participation in digital sports will increase.
• Negative cultural and social attitudes towards women’s sports will decrease.
• Social and gender justice in access to sports facilities will be promoted.
• Women’s physical and mental health will improve through participation in digital sports.

The role of family and social support is among the key factors in women’s acceptance and participation in digital sports and virtual reality technology. The family, as the first social institution in which a person is raised, plays an effective role in women's attitudes and decisions about sports activities. In societies like Iran, where family-oriented culture is prominent, the support of family members, especially spouses, parents, and children, can be an important incentive or obstacle for women's participation in new sports activities.

In addition to the family, social support from friends, colleagues, and social networks also has an impact on women's acceptance of new sports technologies. Social support not only creates motivation, but can also help reduce cultural, social, and even economic barriers.

According to the results of the research, the dimensions of the role of family and social support in the acceptance of digital sports were presented in the following dimensions:

• Emotional support: Encouragement and psychological support from family members to engage in sports activities can strengthen women's positive attitudes towards participating in digital sports.
• Financial support: Family assistance in covering the costs of purchasing digital sports equipment or paying for sports center membership fees has a significant impact on women's access to these technologies.
• Creating an encouraging environment: The role of the family in reducing negative attitudes and strengthening women's self-confidence in participating in sports, especially in the face of restrictive cultures, is very important.
• The role of friends and colleagues: Encouragement from friends and colleagues can encourage women to participate in digital sports activities and increase their sense of social belonging.
• The role of social networks: Virtual social networks, as a platform for sharing sports experiences, can play an important role in psychologically supporting and motivating women to use digital sports.

Smith, (2021) found that family support, especially from spouses, is an important factor in increasing women’s participation in digital sports activities. They showed that families that understand the value of physical activity increase women’s participation by 35%. Jones, (2020) concluded that the role of family in changing gender attitudes and reducing cultural constraints could be a key prerequisite for women’s participation in new sports technologies.

Rahimi, (2022) in Iran showed that women in families with greater economic and emotional support are more motivated to participate in digital sports. This study emphasized that educating families about the benefits of digital sports can help increase public awareness.

Zhou, (2023) stated that social support from friends and colleagues plays an important role in reducing feelings of isolation and increasing women's self-confidence to participate in digital sports. Kamali, (2023) noted in a domestic study that in Iranian societies, women can overcome cultural and economic barriers and participate in digital sports with more confidence with the support of their parents and spouses. Algamadi, (2021) found that online social networks can be a powerful platform for attracting social support and increasing women's interactions in digital sports activities.

Based on the above, it can be inferred that family and community support is one of the essential pillars for Iranian women's acceptance and participation in digital sports and virtual reality technology. Research shows that families that believe in the importance of sports and new technologies can create more motivation and opportunities for women by providing emotional, economic and cultural support. Also, the role of friends and social networks in increasing a sense of belonging and social interaction is undeniable.

Key achievements from family and community support will include the following:

• Increasing women’s motivation and self-confidence to participate in digital sports.
• Reducing the impact of limiting cultural and social barriers.
• Creating more opportunities for women to develop their sports skills and activities.
• Raising public awareness of the importance of digital sports in physical and mental
• Providing better access to the necessary infrastructure and equipment.

Based on the findings of domestic and international research, educating families and strengthening social support networks should be prioritized in sports policymaking so that women can access digital sports and virtual reality with fewer cultural and social barriers.

Based on the results of the research, it can be concluded that facilitating Iranian women's access to digital sports and virtual reality technology is one of the essential steps in developing gender justice and promoting women's social participation in modern arenas. These technologies not only provide the possibility of performing diverse sports activities, but also help reduce the social, cultural, and economic barriers that Iranian women face by creating interactive and attractive environments. However, success in this path requires a multifaceted approach that includes multiple factors such as gender attitudes, family and community support, government infrastructure, and awareness of new technologies.

One of the most important outcomes of facilitating access is increasing women’s motivation to participate in sports and improving their physical and mental health. When women gain access to technologies such as virtual reality, they can overcome physical, geographical and cultural limitations and engage in physical activities in a safe and private space. On the other hand, the social impacts of this development, including strengthening social relationships, increasing self-confidence and even creating new job opportunities, can play an important role in empowering women. Also, access to these technologies can lead women to learn new skills related to digital sports, which will grow their individual and social capacities in the long run. To achieve these goals, it is necessary for the government and the private sector to work in coordination to develop infrastructure, reduce access costs and promote training related to sports technologies. Creating cultural campaigns to change traditional attitudes and providing financial incentives and support can facilitate this process. Overall, facilitating Iranian women's access to digital sports and virtual reality technology not only provides an opportunity to improve women's lives, but can also serve as a key tool on the path to sustainable social and economic development of the country.

In addition, the role of social media and cultural initiatives in promoting digital sports for Iranian women should not be overlooked. The media can serve as a tool for informing, educating, and raising awareness about the benefits and applications of these technologies. Also, presenting women’s success stories in this field and showcasing the positive impacts of their participation can inspire others and challenge traditional attitudes. On the other hand, creating support networks among women and forming online interactive groups allows for the exchange of experiences and motivation. These measures, along with infrastructure facilities and government support, can pave the way for women’s participation in digital sports and virtual reality technology and pave the way for achieving gender justice in the fields of sports and technology.

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  Table 1