Barreiras iniciais e facilitadores motivacionais da aderencia ao beach tennis

Abstract

The study addresses Beach Tennis (BT), a relatively recent sports modality in the sports scene that stands out for its rapid growth due to its versatility, social and competitive nature. The aim of the study was to understand the process of overcoming the initial barriers faced by BT practitioners, as well as to elucidate the facilitators that encourage them to continue in this sports modality. A total of 183 participants, of both genders, with an average age of 39.45 (± 10.70) years, who agreed to respond to an online questionnaire about motivational factors leading to the adoption and adherence to BT, took part in the study. It was observed that the lack of mastery of technique, lack of time and motivation, health considerations, and social and financial factors were the main barriers reported and overcome for the practice of BT. Facilitating factors such as enjoyment, socialization, and physical conditioning were important in sustaining engagement with the sport. The results highlight the importance of understanding and addressing initial barriers and facilitators to promote effective strategies in sports practice. The research contributes not only to the understanding of BT as a physical activity but also to guide inclusive public policy strategies related to health promotion through bodily practices.