Identifying the Dimensions of a Lifestyle Management Model for Sports Champions: A Qualitative Approach

Abstract

The present study aimed to identify and explain the dimensions of a lifestyle management model for sports champions using a qualitative grounded-theory approach. This qualitative study was conducted using classical grounded theory with Glaser’s emergent approach. The participants consisted of experts and knowledgeable stakeholders in the fields of lifestyle, sports culture, championship sport, sport management, and related policy and executive domains. Sampling initially followed a purposive strategy and subsequently continued theoretically in accordance with emerging concepts and categories. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 15 eligible participants and continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Interviews were audio-recorded with participants’ consent, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed concurrently with data collection. Data analysis was conducted through constant comparison, theoretical memo writing, theoretical sampling, and open, selective, and theoretical coding. The dependability of the coding process was further examined through intercoder agreement. The analysis resulted in 90 refined initial codes, which were organized into 30 subcategories and 15 main categories. These categories were integrated into five overarching dimensions: structural factors, behavioral factors, contextual factors, intervening factors, and expected outcomes. Structural factors included cultural policymaking, institutional support, and the educational system; behavioral factors comprised daily self-care, ethical behavior, and consumption moderation; contextual factors included family context, cultural context, and life circumstances; intervening factors consisted of support from significant others, social influence, and situational conflict; and expected outcomes included individual well-being, life sustainability, and cultural credibility. The integrated findings indicated that lifestyle management among sports champions is a multidimensional process involving the coordinated organization of sporting and non-sporting aspects of life. Effective lifestyle management among sports champions requires an integrated and context-sensitive approach that simultaneously addresses institutional structures, daily behaviors, family and cultural circumstances, interpersonal influences, situational challenges, and long-term personal, professional, and social outcomes.