Mental health and sport confidence: analysis of the links and impact of an 8 weeks adapted physical activity intervention

This study investigated the impact of an 8-week Adapted Physical Activity (APA) program on mental health and sport confidence in 247 adults (Mage = 56.85) with and without pathologies. Participants completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD) and a sport confidence measure before (T1) and after (T2) the intervention. Results showed significant improvements in anxiety, depression, and sport confidence following the APA program. Notably, these benefits were observed regardless of the presence of a pathology. Furthermore, a mediation model revealed that depression mediated the relationship between anxiety and sport confidence at T1. This mediation persisted at T2, while the direct link between anxiety and sport confidence was no longer significant. These findings underscore the importance of APA in enhancing mental health and sport confidence, particularly by alleviating depressive symptoms. The study highlights the need to address mood and emotional well-being in promoting long-term engagement in physical activity for individuals of all levels and health conditions.