Abstract
425 While physiologic studies have demonstrated the multitude of benefits of a physically active lifestyle, including for aging adults, many epidemiologic studies have documented the epidemic of inactivity in American in the present day. Few studies have examined the behavior of “successful agers”, who exercise on a regular basis. One hundred six questionnaires were mailed to all members of the Syracuse Chargers Track Club aged 60 or older. It was hypothesized that this group would report successfully incorporating regular exercise into their daily routine and that specific characteristics about their patterns, influences, and motivators could be identified by questionnaire. Questions were in multiple choice, rank order, and fill-in-the-blank format and investigated training habits, general health, self-efficacy, and life history. Review of data revealed a 66% response rate. Fourteen of 70 responders were female. Average age, income, and education were 67.2 yrs, $59,000/yr, and 17.4 yrs, respectively. Forty-six of 70 were retired or semi-retired. Thirty-seven percent ran 3-4 days/wk, 38.6% ran 5-6 days/wk, 17.5% ran 7 days/wk, and 9.7% ran only 1-2 days/wk. Thirty of 70 were local, national, or world age-group record holders or medallers since turning 60. Of those who ran more than 4 days/wk, health was ranked as most important. Of those who ran less than 4 days/wk, family was ranked as most important. Women ran less days/wk than men. Weather, time, injury, and family commitments were ranked as the biggest barriers to maintaining a training program. Influence of a personal friend or family member was the most common reason to start a program, while desire to get fit was the second most common. 100% of responders believed that running contributed positively to their health and friendships. Characteristics of a select group of 60 and older community dwellers are presented. Further study will include analysis in a larger group of runners as well as in a control group of non-runners.
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