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This study explored the mechanisms of physical activity (PA) compensation among older adults who recently reduced their non‐exercise physical activity (NEPA) in response to a structured PA intervention.

A post‐trial, retrospective qualitative process evaluation using interviews was employed.

Levels of PA compensation were determined by comparing NEPA prior to and during the final week of a 4‐week structured PA intervention. Those who reduced their NEPA by 10% or greater were considered as compensators. Interviews were conducted with older adult compensators (mean age = 58.56 ± 3.88 years; n = 9), employing thematic analysis to identify potential mechanisms of PA compensation.

The findings suggest that the majority of participants were unaware that they had compensated in their PA, suggesting that this may be a non‐volitional process. Most participants …