The experience of regular exercise participation for women moving into their middle years: its nature, meaning and its benefits

The research study took a holistic approach to exploring the nature, meaning and benefits of regular participation in exercise from the perspective of 41 women aged 30-50 years. Semi-structured interviews and focus groups were utilised in the data gathering process. The neuro-logical levels model, from the field of neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), formed the basis of the data gathering process. A heuristic methodology was utilsed in the analysis and presentation of the data. Regular participation in exercise was found to provide women with emotional and spiritual gains that extended beyond the traditional physical and lifestyle benefits. Individuals recognised 'special' qualities in exercise, plus benefits to the mind. They noted unique personal benefits and enhanced interpersonal relationships in many spheres of life