Health, lifestyle behaviours, and well-being of International Masters field hockey athletes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe and compare health status, lifestyle behaviours, and well-being of athletes from three world regions competing in the 2018 Masters Field Hockey World Cup. A total of 465 athletes (180 men, 284 women, 1 other) from 21 countries, aged 35 to 76 years, completed the Health and Well-being of Masters Field Hockey Athletes survey. Most participants rated their health as “very good” or “excellent”, had no major health conditions nor medication use, had a healthy BMI, and experienced varying levels of stress. No significant differences between the regions were found in health status. Participants had healthy dietary habits overall, with significant differences between the regions in fruit, vegetable, and water consumption. Most participants reported ≥7 hours of sleep per night and varying amounts of restless sleep. Just under half of the participants reported sitting five or more hours per day, with no significant differences between the regions. While significant differences were found in exercise frequency, participants across all regions were physically active. Participants reported high levels of flourishing, with some significant differences found between the regions. While some regional differences were found, International Masters field hockey athletes in general practise healthy lifestyle behaviours and reported excellent overall health and well-being.