Exploring physical activity maintenance in middle aged and older women: A qualitative study

Literature on physical activity determinants among middle and older aged women focuses mainly on short term participation. However, previous studies have largely overlooked the factors affecting long term participation in physical activity. Using an ecological framework and self-determination theory, this study examined physical activity behaviours related to past and current physical activity experiences in women who have maintained a physically active lifestyle for more than three years. This study also explored the role of four factors (motivation, social support, physical environment, and barriers) on the physical activity behaviours of active middle aged and older women. Nine semi-structured interviews, four with middle aged women (39 to 45 years) and five with older women (60 to 68 years) were audio-taped, transcribed verbatim and analyzed. Qualitative findings revealed that, remaining healthy, experiencing positive feelings, fun/enjoyment, socializing, internal and external influences and weight control/appearance were key motivational factors. All of the women had strong social support provided by family, friends, community program participants and physicians. The type of social support provided was encouragement, companionship and informational. In terms of their physical environments, accessibility, safety, and good walking/enjoyable scenery were important characteristics to remaining physically active. Of barriers reported, health, time and weather were most salient. The women used various coping strategies in order to overcome their physical activity barriers (e.g., wearing orthotics). These findings have important implications for researchers and practitioners involved in designing and implementing behaviour change interventions aimed at increasing physical activity for inactive middle and older aged women