Abstract:
Objectives: The primary objective ofthis study was to explore motivation and
psychological need salience in the initiatory and maintenance experiences of older female
exercIsers.
Methods: Female initiates (n = 3) and reflective maintainers (n = 3) 65 years of age or
older (M = 76 years; SD = 5.37) participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were
analyzed holistically and categorically, following a hermeneutic approach to inquiry.
Results: Perceived importance of exercise benefits appeared to be the strongest motive
for initiates at this stage of life and connections to others were perceived as valued, but
less important in exercise contexts. Also, listening to one's body over instructions from
the exercise leader emerged as a key factor to success.
Conclusions: Overall, the results ofthis study implicate more self-determined than
controlled motives as sources of regulation in older females' exercise initiation
experiences. Evidence for psychological needs was more heterogeneous and less
conclusive.
