The "maintainer's" perspective on maintaining regular physical activity: theory development using a constructivist grounded theory approach.

BACKGROUND

The factors leading to physical activity maintenance are not well-understood. This study investigated such factors among individuals who adhere to the WHO physical activity guidelines for five years or longer, exploring perspectives, motives and facilitators of long-term physical activity maintenance.

METHODS

A constructivist grounded theory study was conducted to explore the phenomenon through the maintainers themselves (n = 10) via in-depth semi-structured interviews.

RESULTS

Coded segments (n = 1,127) were sorted into 21 themes and summarized into six broad categories: three main categories: 1) enjoyment; 2) adaptability; 3) well-being, the fundamental factor of 4) priority, as well as two supporting categories: 5) organization, and 6) community. The model presents the interconnectedness of these factors.

CONCLUSION

This study aligns and expands the existing literature on physical activity maintenance, emphasizing the importance of prioritization as foundational for adaptability, enjoyment, and well-being. The findings suggest that a dynamic approach is crucial for physical activity maintenance.