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In the context of China’s large aging population and its rapid growth, this study examines how leisure sports, which offer multiple benefits for older adults, contribute to promoting active aging. Using a phenomenological approach, this study aims to explore the process of older participants experiencing active aging within the context of leisure sports. In-depth interviews were conducted with 13 Chinese older adults who had participated in leisure sports activities for at least six months. Thematic analysis revealed that active aging through leisure sports is a gradual refinement process encompassing four stages: initiating active aging, active aging with health focus, active aging with social focus, and holistic active aging. The initial stage involved self-driven participation in leisure sports; the health-focused stage emphasized physical and mental health; the socialization stage centered on receiving and giving support; and the final stage reflected a strong sense of identity and wellbeing. This study offers an innovative interpretation of active aging through the lens of leisure sports, providing new theoretical insights and Chinese-specific evidence to enrich the existing literature.
Shang et al. (Wed,) studied this question.