Early dropout from sports activity: a relevant phenomenon in adolescents and a health problem in adults

BACKGROUND: Early abandonment from sports activity is an important phenomenon in young people because the lack of movement contributes to the adoption of incorrect lifestyles that will persist over time. The aim of this study was to explore the association between different types of dropout from sports (definitive and non-definitive) with gender, age, school curriculum and type of sport practiced in the past (individual or team).METHODS: The sample consisted of 1892 Italian students of senior high school, aged 14-18 years. They completed a self-assessment questionnaire concerning physical activity and sports habits. Outcomes were analyzed with frequency analysis.RESULTS: Findings showed that the age, gender, school curriculum and sport type practiced in the past before dropping out, might contribute independently and jointly to the different types of dropout.CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that cultural and individual features and sports type practiced during adolescence may have an impact on the sport dropout phenomenon. These associations must be considered to develop intervention strategies tailored to dropout prevention and build correct lifestyle.