MOTIVOS DE PRÁCTICA DE EJERCICIO FÍSICO EN ADULTOS MAYORES DE DIFERENTES CONTEXTOS

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to understand the reasons to join or to continue in a physical exercise programme based on the perceptions of the older adults participating in the study. Four focus groups were selected in various contexts, with a total of 39 older adults. An emergent induction analysis methodology was applied, handling the participants' speeches from the specific to the general through the coding process proposed in the grounded theory. The differences among contexts regarding personal reasons for physical practice were presented, as well as the role of physical and psychological benefits, and body image. The participants of this research engaged in physical exercise to pursue physical health benefits in the first place, followed by psychological well-being, and leaving body image aside.