Training leisure centre instructors: client motivational profiles examined

Purpose: To investigate the motivations of clients attending leisure centres/clubs. It is noted training programmes for instructors tend to neglect this, particularly in relation to the gender and age of clients. Method: In this study 460 recreational athletes including equal numbers of males and females in the two age groups, 17-27 years and 37-84 were interviewed and given a short questionnaire concerning their motives for taking part in activities in leisure centres/clubs. Findings: It was found both gender and age influenced motivations to participate and reasons for leaving. Implications: The need for instructors to be made aware of the very different motives driving recreational athletes to attend clubs was stressed if client wastage is to be reduced.