Differences in older adult walking football initiation and maintenance influences across respondent characteristics: a cross-sectional survey

Cholerton, Rachel (2021). Differences in older adult walking football initiation and maintenance influences across respondent characteristics: a cross-sectional survey. SHU Research Data Archive (SHURDA). http://doi.org/10.17032/shu-180023

Summary

Despite health benefits gained from physical activity and sport participation, older adults are least likely to be active. This study investigates what influences walking football initiation and maintenance in 50–75-year-olds (n=439) across gender, socioeconomic status, number of health conditions and weekly PA level. It also considers the relationship between participant characteristics and influences, and the intention to continue play after a forced break (Covid-19 Pandemic). Results of a cross-sectional survey in the UK found those with two or more health conditions rated social influences significantly higher in both initiation and maintenance phases, than participants with no health conditions. Regression analysis found a positive walking football culture and perceived use of maintenance resources contributed to the intention to return to play after Coronavirus restrictions eased. Findings highlight novel implications relating to social connections, walking football culture and maintenance resources (e.g., scheduling sessions) when older adults start and continue

Keywords:

Walking football, physical activity, older adults, social influences

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