Estudio de la relación del entorno psicosocial en la práctica deportiva de la mujer

Abstract

The influence of surrounding people in women"s sport practice is analysed. The sample was made up of 636 women from Spain, aged between 15 and 64 (M = 38.36; SD = 11.51). The measurement instrument was an online survey with close-ended questions about the practice of sportphysical activities and the support of significant others (father, mother, brothers/sisters, best friends and workmates), which followed the Health Behaviour Survey (HBS; Wold, Aarö and Smith, 1994 versioned by Balaguer, 2000). Results show predominantly low levels of sport practice (1-2 days/week), with women aged 50-64 having the highest levels of practice (5-7 days/week). Concerning influences from the environment, it is noticeable that brothers/sisters, best friends and workmates who not only practice sport but also encourage women to practise it are more influential than parents; in particular, the presence of supportive friends increases with age. These data complement preceding studies, as well as suggest new research issues related to women"s sport practice in Spain.