Exercise attitudes and behaviours among retired female collegiate athletes

Abstract Objectives The present study explored exercise attitudes and behaviours among retired female collegiate athletes. Design A survey design incorporating both closed and open-ended questions was adopted. Method A total of 218 former NCAA Division I female athletes ( n  = 144 gymnastics; n  = 74 swimming/diving) provided details on their current exercise behaviours and their thoughts regarding exercise since retiring from collegiate sport. Results No relations were found between years since retirement and athletes’ current exercise frequency, types of exercise activities, and reasons for exercising. Despite reporting activity levels consistent with recommendations (5 days/week, 1 h per session), retired athletes remained dissatisfied with their activity levels and struggled to integrate exercise alongside occupational, academic and social demands. Conclusions Athletes may require support in adapting to an independent and less intense exercise regime on retirement. Future research may look to explore exercise attitudes and behaviours among retired athletes from a longitudinal perspective.