Leisure-time Physical Activity Motives and Perceived Gains for Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury

Abstract Study Design: Cohort Study Objectives: To examine motives and perceived gains of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) in people with a spinal cord injury (SCI). Setting: Community-dwelling Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. One hundred and five individuals with an SCI undertook semi-structured interviews. A cross-sectional analysis, which included descriptive, inferential, and regression statistics, was conducted on all participants, guideline adherers and guideline non-adherers. Results: The mean (SD) total LTPA performed by the participants was 301 (257) minutes per week, and 47% of participants met SCI-specific LTPA guidelines. The most common motives for LTPA were improvements in health and fitness, management of appearance and weight, and avoidance of illness. The most common perceived gains included improved health, fitness, strength and endurance, increased nimbleness, and greater enjoyment. Conclusions: Improvements in health, fitness, agility, avoidance of ill health, and management of weight and appearance are common motivators and perceived gains of LTPA. Recognition, stress management, and affiliation appear to be frequently unexpected benefits of LTPA. LTPA does not appear to elicit the desired weight and appearance management dose that people with SCI desire. Regular LTPA should be encouraged for its health benefits, and emphasis should be placed on promoting its ability to reduce illness, facilitate affiliation, and manage stress.