Gentle Gymnastics and Perceived Psychophysical Well-Being in Adults and Older Adults: An Exploratory Observational Study

Felice Di Domenico; Giuseppe  Giardullo; Manuele Taleb; Vera Simões; Ruggero Andrisano Ruggieri; Tiziana D’Isanto

Authors

Felice Di Domenico Research Center of Physical Education and Exercise, University of Pegaso, Napoli, Italy Corresponding Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5897-9704
Giuseppe Giardullo Research Center of Physical Education and Exercise, University of Pegaso, Napoli, Italy Author https://orcid.org/0009-0003-9319-4077
Manuele Taleb Research Center of Physical Education and Exercise, University of Pegaso, Napoli, Italy Author https://orcid.org/0009-0000-3985-0617
Vera Simões School of Sport of Rio Maior, Polytechnic Institute of Santarém, Rio Maior, Santarém, Portugal Author https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5124-2446
Ruggero Andrisano Ruggieri Department of Human, Philosophical and Education Sciences, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy Author https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1779-8859
Tiziana D’Isanto Research Center of Physical Education and Exercise, University of Pegaso, Napoli, Italy Author https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7151-7486

Keywords:

Gentle gymnastics, Psychophysical well-being, Perceived benefits, Active aging, Adapted physical activity

Abstract

Objectives: Gentle gymnastics is a low-impact adapted physical activity particularly suitable for adults and older individuals, as it involves low-intensity exercises aimed at promoting psychophysical well-being. However, limited evidence exists on how individual characteristics and practice-related factors influence perceived benefits in real-world settings. This study aimed to examine the associations between age, duration, and frequency of participation in gentle gymnastics and perceived psychophysical benefits in an adult and older population.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among adults and older individuals engaged in gentle gymnastics. Data were collected using structured self-report questionnaires assessing demographic characteristics, practice patterns, and perceived physical and psychological benefits.

Results: Eighty participants were included. Overall, participants reported high levels of perceived psychological well-being: 93.7% reported improved mood after sessions, 92.5% reported high overall satisfaction, 75.0% reported improved sleep quality, and 90.1% reported a positive effect of physical activity on stress levels. Age was significantly associated with perceived improvements in sleep quality (ρ = −0.37; p < .001), mood (ρ = −0.36; p < .001), and reduced fatigue (ρ = −0.29; p = .010). No significant associations were found between age, duration, or frequency of practice and perceived physical capacities. A significant association was observed between initial motivation and the type of activity practiced (χ²(1) = 13.47; p < .001; φ = 0.41).

Conclusion: Gentle gymnastics appears to be mainly associated with psychological and general well-being benefits rather than substantial improvements in perceived physical capacities. These findings support the value of individualized and adapted physical activity programs for promoting psychophysical well-being and quality of life among adult and older populations.