Perceived Benefits of Curling in Older Canadian Women

Objectives An increasing proportion of older Canadians are pursuing sports. The objective of this study was to examine the experiences of older Canadian women in curling. Methods Semistructured interviews were conducted with 17 participants. Interviews were transcribed and coded using thematic analysis. Results Participants simultaneously resisted, accepted, and ultimately redefined conceptualizations of personal aging in the context of curling. Although gender was deemed inconsequential, concepts such as the physical and cognitive demands of curling, inclusivity, social connection and support, and competition were perceived to be integral to participants’ experiences. Discussion This study extends our understanding of the value of curling specifically, and sport in general, for older women.