Empowered by Intertwined Theory and Practice – Experiences From a Diabetes Sports Camp for Physically Active Adults With Type 1 Diabetes

Aims: To describe the experiences of individuals with diabetes type 1 (T1D) participating in diabetes sports camps and how acquired knowledge could be used in daily self-management.

Methods: Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with 15 adults with T1D. A strategic sample procedure was chosen. The interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Results: The overarching theme ”Empowered by intertwined theory and practice”, included three main categories: Learning in a motivation-enhancing environment, incorporation of new habits and perceptions of glycemic control and health-related outcomes. The participants considered the camp to be an excellent opportunity to share feelings, ideas, and knowledge. They felt empowered by the camp atmosphere as well as supportive environment. After the camp, the general well-being was improved by incorporating new habits and improvements in glucose control.

Conclusions: A diabetes sports camp constitutes an excellent, but resource-intensive, complimentary support in diabetes care and provides opportunities for T1D individuals to become more independent and autonomous. The findings indicate the need for more directed learning activities for individuals with type 1 diabetes and health care providers to increase their competence in the area of T1D and exercise in order to adequately manage counseling in various types of sports.