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The relationship between Muay Thai and perception of wellness in a previously sedentary group of older Australian adults
Conference presentation

The relationship between Muay Thai and perception of wellness in a previously sedentary group of older Australian adults

Dan Sullivan, Luke Del Vecchio, Richard Lakeman and Zachary Crowly-McHatten
4th Mental Health Research Conference 2025: Loss. Learn. Live, 4th (Chiang Mai, Thailand, 27/03/2025–28/03/2025)
27/03/2025

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Abstract

Objective: This study used a mixed methods design comprising a quasi-experimental and qualitative analysis informed by constant comparative analysis to compare the effects of participation in modified Muay Thai on participants sense of wellbeing and quality of life. Methods: This longitudinal study was conducted on the Southern Gold Coast in Southeast Queensland Australia and recruited a convenience sample (n=20)of previously sedentary older Australian Adults (mean age = 66.0 years, SD = 9.33) as well as a comparison group (n = 7, mean age = 68 years, SD = 4.1). Reliable instruments including the SF12 and PERMA Profiler, were used to measure wellbeing and quality of life before and after the 12-week programme where the Muay Thay group trained twice weekly. Semi-structured interviews were conducted at the end of the programme to give context to the quantitative results and address potential attrition of the study participants. Participants in the comparison group engaged in walking at a similar intensity and duration. Results: Preliminary statistical indicates the Muay Thai group improved (p<0.05) from baseline on almost all mental health variables. However, analysis using a ‘linear mixed effects model’ indicated the difference between groups was less pronounced. Qualitative analysis identified distinct motivational factors that influenced participants’ decision to initiate and engagement in the respective exercise programmes. Conclusions: The findings suggest that participation in Muay Thai can improve older adults' well-being and quality of life over 12 weeks. Additionally, this study highlights the significance of understanding motivational factors in selecting and maintaining physical activity programs for previously sedentary older adults, which is critical for addressing the challenges of aging populations.

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