Physical Activity Experiences of People with Type 1 Diabetes across the Life Course

Richardson, Emma ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7409-778X, Bright, C., Farrow, D. and Nathan, H. (2025) Physical Activity Experiences of People with Type 1 Diabetes across the Life Course. Adapted Physical Activity Quarterly. ISSN Print: 0736-5829 Online: 1543-2777 (In Press)

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Abstract

This study offers novel and significant insights to advance understanding, practise and policy regarding physical activity (PA) across the lifespan among individuals with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in the United Kingdom (UK). Utilising both medicalised and socio-cultural lenses, we aimed to (1) examine the PA experiences of people with T1D; and (2) explore the meanings of PA across the life course. The qualitative testimonies of a 311 participants aged 3–75 were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis across age-based case studies. We identified why PA becomes meaningful at particular life stages, and how experiences are shaped by intersections of technology use, social attitudes, healthcare transitions, body image, and identity. Participants of all ages described navigating stigma, institutional misunderstanding, and internalised ableism, often heightened with age. We conclude that the T1D community remains underserved by current approaches, and call for targeted policy, practitioner training, and lifespan-oriented research that fosters inclusive and empowering PA opportunities.

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