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Physical Exercise and Older People: Always a Happy Relationship? Four Qualitative Reflections to Deepen Understanding

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  • Alexis Sossa Rojas

    (Institute of Sociology (ISUC), Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile)

Abstract

In this paper, I recall reflections from and discussions with both older people who exercise actively and with personal trainers who specialise in working with older people to address two essential elements that should be clarified: First, what are we talking about when we discuss sport, physical exercise and physical activity, especially when we relate them to older people? Second, the benefits of exercise are known, but what are the margins and precautions that this group of people should consider, and even the damage that physical exercise can cause to them? Based on qualitative data that are taken from different ethnographic works, four areas are considered: What does it mean to train as a senior?; are injuries inevitable?; the dangers of having an athlete’s identity; and the hazards of body-image ideals. This work gives voice to older athletes and their coaches, and contributes to studies on physical activity, older people and wellbeing.

Suggested Citation

  • Alexis Sossa Rojas, 2024. "Physical Exercise and Older People: Always a Happy Relationship? Four Qualitative Reflections to Deepen Understanding," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 13(2), pages 1-13, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jscscx:v:13:y:2024:i:2:p:120-:d:1340202
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Leinonen, Raija & Heikkinen, Eino & Jylhä, Marja, 2001. "Predictors of decline in self-assessments of health among older people -- a 5-year longitudinal study," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 52(9), pages 1329-1341, May.
    2. Muhammad Badar Habib & Selina Khoo & Tony Morris, 2022. "Motives and Passion of Adults from Pakistan toward Physical Activity," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(6), pages 1-17, March.
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