Objective.

To explore the similarities and differences between the types of motivation towards the practice of physical activity (PA) in different populations (adolescents, older adults and former elite athletes) for the creation of PA programs that reflect the particularities of those populations.

Method.

The qualitative data collection was carried out through focus groups; three groups with adolescents, two with older adults and one with former elite athletes. In total, 17 adolescents, 14 older adults and four former elite athletes participated in this study. A thematic analysis was conducted.

Results.

The results are shown based on autonomous, controlled motivation and amotivation towards the practice of physical activity for each group. Fun, socialization and health have been identified as motivating factors towards the PA practice common in the three groups studied.

Conclusion.

Orientations are proposed for the creation of PA programs. For adolescents, the proposal would include the individualization of their objectives and the perception of the freedom of choice in relation to the PA. For the group of older adults, it is important to offer new experiences, taking into account the profile of the monitor. For the group of former elite athletes, the proposed starting point would be the reconceptualization of the PA practice after the athletic career.

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