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Abstract
Research suggests that age and gender play important roles in motivation for and constraints to leisure time physical activity. Little research, however, has looked specifically at the perceptions and experiences of older men. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore leisure time physical activity and the ageing body from the perspectives of older men. Social cognitive theory was used to interpret the findings that emerged from constant comparison of in-depth interviews and follow-up focus groups with 15 men aged 60–70. The findings suggested that many participants modified their physical activity due to changing health status as well as external constraints such as time. For many men, however, awareness of their ageing body and value placed on health combined to motivate them to participate in intentional physical activity. Furthermore, those who viewed physical activity as enjoyable and beneficial, and/or viewed their identity as related to being active, were more likely to participate in regular leisure time physical activity. Findings provided insight into the experiences, perspectives and needs of older men related to physical activity and the ageing body.
