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Gentle Gymnastics and Perceived Psychophysical Well-Being in Adults and Older Adults: An Exploratory Observational Study

Authors
Giuseppe Giardullo 1 iD
Manuele Taleb 1 iD
Vera Simões 2 iD
Ruggero Andrisano Ruggieri 3 iD
Tiziana D’Isanto 1 iD
Affiliations
1Research Center of Physical Education and Exercise, University of Pegaso, Napoli, Italy
2School of Sport of Rio Maior, Polytechnic Institute of Santarém, Rio Maior, Santarém, Portugal
3Department of Human, Philosophical and Education Sciences, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
Overview

Abstract

Objective:  This study aimed to explore the associations between age, duration, and frequency of participation in gentle gymnastics and the perceived psychophysical benefits in an adult and older population.

Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on a sample of adults and older adults aged 40 years and older engaged in gentle gymnastics. Data were collected using an ad hoc, non-validated self-report questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, exercise practice patterns, and perceived physical and psychological benefits.

Findings: Eighty participants were included in the study. Overall, participants reported high levels of perceived psychological well-being, with 93.7% reporting improved mood after sessions and 92.5% reporting high overall satisfaction. Seventy-five percent of participants reported perceived improvements in sleep quality, while 90.1% reported a positive influence of physical activity on stress levels. Age was significantly and negatively associated with perceived improvements in sleep quality (ρ = −0.37; p < .001), mood (ρ = −0.36; p < .001), and fatigue reduction (ρ = −0.29; p = .010). No significant associations were found between age or weekly frequency of practice and most perceived physical capacities. However, practice duration showed a weak positive association with perceived physical endurance (ρ = 0.28; p = .011). A significant association was observed between initial motivation and the type of activity practiced (χ² (1) = 13.47; p < .001; φ = 0.41).

Conclusion: Gentle gymnastics was perceived by participants as mainly associated with psychological and general well-being benefits rather than marked improvements in perceived physical capacities. These findings highlight the importance of individualized and adapted physical activity programs in promoting psychophysical well-being and quality of life among adult and older populations.

Gentle gymnasticsPsychophysical well-beingPerceived benefitsActive agingAdapted physical activity