Quality of life and associated lifestyle factors in former throwing athletes
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Abstract
Objectives: Research on former athletes has primarily focused on collision sports such as rugby and American football. Limited information is available regarding the long-term health and quality of life (QOL) of athletes from non-contact sports, particularly throwing events in track and field. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted among 84 former male throwing athletes in Japan who had participated in official competitions. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, athletic history, smoking and drinking habits, exercise habits, medical history, and satisfaction with athletic career. Quality of life was assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify independent factors associated with QOL. Results: The mean WHOQOL-BREF score among former throwing athletes was 3.67 ± 0.63. Athletes who reported satisfaction with their athletic careers had significantly higher QOL scores than those who were not satisfied (p < .01). Participants with regular exercise habits also demonstrated significantly higher QOL scores (p = .009). Multiple regression analysis revealed that career satisfaction and exercise habits were independently associated with QOL. Conclusions: Former throwing athletes demonstrated relatively good quality of life. Career satisfaction and continued exercise habits appear to be important factors associated with maintaining QOL after athletic retirement.
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