Enjoy the ride: an exploratory qualitative approach to examining sources of intrinsic motivation in experienced windsurfers

Since the 1980s ‘peak’ in windsurf popularity, participation rates have generally fallen. Intrinsic motivation is a key driver for consistent participation, as it will sustain regardless of external changes - such as a reduction in popularity. However, research into its sources is predominantly quantitative, providing a base of ‘what’ factors are involved, although less depth regarding ‘how’ and ‘why’ these are influential. Using the self-determination theory as a framework, the aim of this study was to advance the quality of in-depth qualitative knowledge, regarding the factors and facilitators involved in eliciting/sustaining intrinsic motivation in windsurfers. Nine recreational to elite experienced, windsurfers were selected on the grounds of their intrinsic motivation sub-scale scores in a questionnaire that was distributed to 24 individuals. In-depth exploratory interviews were then conducted. Thematic analysis produced four higher order themes, and seven facilitating sub-themes: perceived relatedness (with ‘strong community bonds’ and ‘collaborative growth’ as sub-themes), perceived autonomy (with an ‘absence of expectation/pressure’ as a sub-theme), perceived competence (with ‘overcoming challenges’ and a ‘sense of progress’ as sub-themes), and other task-related factors (with ‘memorable adrenaline experiences’ and ‘stress release’ as sub-themes). Some key ways in which coaches may elicit/sustain intrinsic motives include; providing challenging yet achievable activities, ensuring that interactions are competence- and autonomy-supportive, and supporting the development of a bonded and collaborative community. Perceived competence was a very prominent theme, and often overlapped with perceived autonomy in its influence. While perceived relatedness demonstrated a slightly more independently facilitating effect. However, various pathways to intrinsic motivation are identified and discussed, demonstrating the complexity of this domain and reinforcing the need for further qualitative research. Limitations are discussed and a longitudinal study design is recommended in sight of these