Abstract

TORREGROSSA, M. et al. Former elite athletes’ current sport and physical activity. CPD [online]. 2019, vol.19, n.2, pp.12-27.  Epub July 13, 2020. ISSN 1989-5879.

The purpose of this study is twofold: (a) to describe the motivational aspects and gains obtained by physically active former elite athletes and the barriers experienced by inactive former elite athletes comparing their reported exercise amount, and (b) to test whether the different motivations would predict their reported exercise amount. Using a cross-sectional survey design, 317 former athletes (Mage = 36.5, SD = 7.18 years) completed an online questionnaire assessing motivation, self-reported exercise and sport practice, stages of change, gains, and barriers. The main gains reported by former athletes were enjoyment, revitalization and positive health. Physically inactive former athletes (12.9%) spotted as the main barriers conflict with other activities, current physical fitness and lost access to facilities and resources. To promote healthy physical activity in the physically inactive population of former elite athletes, policy makers and physical activity organizers should emphasize positive health, social recognition and competition motives, which positively predict intrinsic regulation and vigorous physical activity.

Keywords : Former Elite Athletes; Motivation; Sport and Physical Activity; Career transitions; Sport retirement.

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