Participating in elite sports (particularly endurance-type) is associated with a low risk of premature death, lower risk of morbidity, better self-reported health in later life and higher quality of life. Apart from musculoskeletal conditions, overall, elite athletes are less likely to require hospital care in later life than their peers. Yet, the transition from elite sport into “normal” life can make retirement a difficult time for athletes as activity levels can drop precipitously: once retired, athletes often report dissatisfaction with their current activity levels. This chapter in The Secret Balance of Champions focusses on the implementation of strategies to sustain or even reconnect with physical activity.

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