Understanding sport adherence in Masters athletes: a grounded theory
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Date
2023
Authors
Walsh, Zakry B.
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Arts and Science
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Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Dept. of Kinesiology and Physical Education
Abstract
Large portions of the global population fail to meet physical activity (PA) guidelines (Guthold et al., 2018). Masters athletes (MAs) are a population of older adults that exceed PA guidelines and adhere to sport (Young & Medic, 2011a). Straussian grounded theory (Corbin & Strauss, 2015) was used to understand MAs’ adherence strategies. Fourteen MAs (Mage = 53.64 years, SD = 8.38) from individual-based sports participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed through memoing, constant comparison and a process of open coding, axial coding, and theoretical integration. MAs’ sport adherence was influenced by personal adherence strategies (e.g., goal setting, creating routines), social factors (e.g., interactions with teammates, coaches, and family), and environmental and contextual factors (e.g., work, proximity to facilities). By understanding MAs’ adherence, I hope to use this information to help facilitate regular sport participation and long-term adherence for adult athletes.
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Keywords
Masters athletes , adherence , sport , adult athletes , physical activity , sport commitment , physical activity adherence , sport adherence , physical activity maintenance , Straussian grounded theory