The effects of light volleyball intervention programme in improving selected physical and psychological attributes of older adults in Hong Kong

Previous research has demonstrated improvements in health outcomes through participation in light volleyball (LVB) among older adults in China (He, 2009). This study examined the effects of a 15-week LVB intervention programme on physical and psychological attributes among older adults in Hong Kong. Participants (N = 78) aged ≥60 years were assigned to one of the three groups: intervention (LVB), comparison [rouliqiu (RLQ)], and control groups (CGs). Participants completed functional fitness measures and physical activity enjoyment questionnaire before and after the intervention. Results revealed significant improvements in agility, cardiovascular endurance, upper and lower extremity muscle strength, and physical activity enjoyment among participants in the LVB group compared to the CG group. Participants in the LVB group also demonstrated greater cardiovascular endurance, upper extremity muscle strength, and physical activity enjoyment than participants in the RLQ group. Health practitioners may consider LVB as an adapted physical activity intervention to promote health outcomes in older adults. Copyright © 2018 International Society of Sport Psychology.