Research Article
Campbell Macgregor
Abstract
This project examined the effects of age on the benefits and constraints to participation in male masters cyclists. Male participants (n=288) aged 35 y and older were divided into three age groups-masters (35-44 y; n=102), middle-aged masters (45-54 y; n=91) and seniors masters (55+ y; n=95). An online self-report survey presented 13 benefit items and 12 constraint items previously used by Cardenas, Henderson and Wilson (2009). ANOVA was used to identify betweengroup differences on perceived benefits, total perceived constraints, and subscale constraints. No effect of age was observed for perceived benefits or subscale constraints. However, those in 55+ y age group reported significantly lower total perceived constraints (F (2,285)=10.70, p<0.01). Furthermore, those in 55+ y group reported significantly lower constraint subscales compared to other age groups. These subscales were reported as: community constraints (F (2,285) 4.68, p=0.01), social constraints (F (2,285) 16.35, p<0.01), intrapersonal constraints, (F (2,285) 3.80, p=0.02). The results suggest that senior masters male cyclists perceived less total and subscale constraints than younger masters and middle-aged masters male cyclists. This finding suggests that lifespan development is evident even in seniors and that unique life events may allow older adults to enjoy greater participation in cycling.