Older Adults' Perceptions of Exercising in a Senior Gym

Abstract

This qualitative study investigated what factors influenced older adults to start and continue to exercise in a senior gym. Eight individuals, ages 65–81, were interviewed. The interviews were analyzed by manifest content analysis. Exercising at their own pace and finding peers, competent staff, and accessible machines were all positive factors for continuing to exercise in a senior gym. Initially, training was something to do to take control of life, physically or time-wise. Later, training became a health investment and a social activity. The found factors can be used as strategies for changing physical activity behavior in older adults.

Keywords:

• senior gym
• resistance training
• motivation
• older adults