Introduction, Objectives, Learning outcomes

The strategies to enhance physical activity engagement, typically follow the guidelines suggested by the socio-cognitive theories for health behaviour changes, such as the Planned Behaviour Theory, and the Transtheoretical Model. Several psychosocial factors however, underline the differences in motivation, among young and older adults. Socioemotional Selectivity Theory suggests a shift to emotional satisfaction in old age. Thus, physical activities that take place in a pleasant, creative atmosphere, can be particularly motivating for older people to increase their physical activity. On the other hand, older adults may have low self-confidence about their physical condition, and also low self-efficacy in learning new skills - exercises. This could act as a barrier and lower their motivation to participate in a fitness programs leading to drop out quite early. Smart wearables may be useful in altering the barriers for participation, mainly by preserving appropriate intensity levels, especially early in the program. It is also possible to use wearables to create a pleasant atmosphere in the class.

• Provide the theoretical framework for understanding the differences in sources of intrinsic motivation between older and younger individuals.
• Provide the theoretical framework for understanding health behaviour changes and maintaining the positive changes.
• Presenting older adults’ motives and barriers for exercise
• Using wearables to identify exercise barriers
• Using wearables to enhance the class motivational climate

• By completing the chapter, the reader will know several ways to use wearables in order to create the appropriate environment for older participants in fitness classes, so that to enhance and preserve their long-term engagement.
• The reader will enhance his/her leadership skills in order to create a motivational climate for all the older adults in his/her classes, no matter their age or their functional status.
• The reader will have a better understanding on how to use wearables to promote older adults’ self-efficacy and enhance enjoyment during fitness classes. Understanding the differences in sources of intrinsic motivation between older and younger individuals, will enable the fitness professional to enhance engagement, and preserve adherence of his/her aged clients.