Perceived Competence and Physical Activity in Older Adults

Abstract

The association between older adults’ self-perceived physical competence and continued involvement in physical activity (PA) was examined. Seventy-two older adults (60–79 years) completed the Physical Self Perception Profile (PSPP; Fox and Corbin, 1989) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire to assess the relationship between physical self-perception and various dose responses in PA participation (vigorous, moderate, walking, inactive/sitting levels). Results indicated a positive correlation between all subscales of the PSPP and both moderate exercise and vigorous exercise. In addition, Sport, Body, and Strength were positively correlated with walking. Age (60–69 vs. 70–79 years) and gender, however, were found to modify those relationships. Mann Whitney University tests revealed that participants in the younger grouping were significantly more likely to spend a greater amount of time walking than those in the older adult grouping. Moreover, males were significantly more likely to participate in vigorous exercise and reported a higher perception of sports competence than their female counterparts. The results of this study suggest that perceived competence be assessed during pre-exercise screening in order to customize exercise programs that will increase the likelihood of continued PA engagement.