OLDER ADULTS' PARTICIPATION IN BALLROOM DANCING: PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF THE SPORT COMMITMENT MODEL

We investigated potential differences in level of sport commitment and its associated antecedents for older adult ballroom dancers in Taiwan. Participants were 150 older adult ballroom dancers who completed a sport commitment questionnaire. Results showed that participation method, experience level, and frequency of participation all had a significant effect on personal investment in ballroom dancing. Frequency of participation also had a significant effect on sport commitment and involvement opportunities. Our findings provide new insights into how older adults perceive ballroom dancing as their chosen physical activity. The results of this study may be used to help leisure service providers and dance instructors understand that sport enjoyment, personal investment, and involvement opportunities are important determinants for participation retention among older adult ballroom dancers.