Taking the First Step - Motivation to Exercise

Fifty-Plus Fitness Library

Library : Year 2 | Session 11: Mental Side of Fitness - Impact of Aging on Intellect

Taking the First Step - Motivation to Exercise

Karin Bivens, M.A.

Physical activity is central to the quality of life people experience as they age. The relationship between physical activity and health has been well documented. Data have linked physical activity to decreased risk of cardiovascular disease, reduction of blood pressure, assistance in weight management, mood improvement and decreased mortality rates. Physical activity also reduces the risk of developing diabetes and some forms of cancer, promotes healthy muscles, bones and joints, and helps maintain functions, thus preserving independence in older adults (U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, 1996).

Despite these benefits, more than 60 percent of U.S. adults are not regularly active and 25 percent are not active at all (U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, 1996). Among those that begin an exercise program, it is estimated that about 50 percent dropout within six months to a year (Dishman, 1998.) Motivating adults to participate in regular physical activity is a major problem.

Duda (1991) supports the personal investment theory in motivating older adults to participate in physical activity. This theory emphasizes strengthening the sense of self and goal directness, increasing social support, emphasizing personal development, increasing opportunities and emphasizing the benefits of physical activity.

A new trend in the U.S. is causing an increase in the numbers of participants in athletic events such as walks, runs, cycling, swimming, and triathlons. The new trend is one of connecting with a cause, increasing awareness and raising funds to find a cure, support research, and improving the quality of life for patients and families. Under the guidance of experienced coaches, participants train as a team to complete a specified athletic event. There is tremendous camaraderie and support from coaches, team captains, and other team members. The goal of participating to help others and make a difference in a supportive environment is motivating. Organizations with active training programs include:

"Team In Training", Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, www.teamintraining.org, (800)482-TEAM or "Joints in Motion", Arthritis Foundation, www.arthritis.org, (800)960-7682 or "Team Diabetes", American Diabetes Association, www.diabetes.org, (888)DIABETES or "Multiple Sclerosis Society", www.nmss.org, (800)FIGHT MS.

Personally, I have had experience with two of these organizations. In 1998 I trained a group of Fifty-Plus members through the "Joints in Motion" program to be able to participate in our Annual Fifty-Plus Weekend. Participants raised money for the Arthritis Foundation and had the satisfaction of completing the race or walk and contributing to an excellent cause.

This summer I joined the Leukemia Society's "Team in Training" and trained for my first triathlon in Pacific Grove, CA. I was the oldest person on the team, but age or ability level was not a factor. Training was conducted for various levels of ability. TNT called these groups the Age, Elite or Pro (which sounded much better than Beginners, Intermediate or Advanced). The team was divided into smaller groups with a mentor for each group. This facilitated communication and enabled us to get better acquainted. There was a tremendous amount of support, enthusiasm and encouragement, but the greatest motivation came from local honorees the team was supporting. Some individuals participated because of personal experience with leukemia.

When I was racking my bike prior to the start of the triathlon, I met a young woman named Jill. She was from another "Team in Training". We wished each other well and happened to see each other during various parts of the race. On the run, which consisted of three laps, we kept cheering each other on. When the race was over, Jill walked up to me holding her 5-year old son. She said, "This is my son. He has leukemia. If members of Team in Training didn't for the money raise it, he would not be alive today. Thank you." Her words really touched me. I realized how much we were all part of a bigger team and that we all can and do make a difference. The results of the race didn't really matter. The goal went beyond any glory that may have come from completing the race.

I was so motivated after completing that triathlon with Team in Training that I applied and was accepted on the "Team in Training's Ironteam". In August of next year I will be participating in Ironman Canada (2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, and a 26.2-mile run). Check out the team's website: www.ironteam.org. This is a major challenge but it pales in comparison to the challenges faced by those with leukemia or lymphoma.

If you are having difficulty being motivated to exercise, consider participating with an organization with a cause that is dedicated to finding a cure and making a difference. If you feel that the athletic goal is too great of a challenge for you, consider volunteering your time to assist at some of these events. Being part of such an event may motivate you to participate at your own level in the future in some kind of physical activity. ♥

References:

Duda, J. L. (1991). Motivating older adults for physical activity: It's never too late. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, 62, 44-48.

U. S. Department of Health and Human Services. (1996). Physical activity and health: A report of the Surgeon General. Atlanta, GA: Dept. of Health and Human Services. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.

Karin Bivens has a Mater's Degree in Kinesiology and teaches for the Health Improvement Program at Stanford University and the Physical Education Division at Foothill College.