Sport Physiology & Management Investigations 1735.5354 17 4 2026 02 20 Designing a strategic plan for optimal management of elderly sports in Iran using the Metaswot technique Designing a strategic plan for optimal management of elderly sports in Iran using the Metaswot technique 105 124 232457 10.22034/spmi.2025.534483.2764 FA Mohaddse Haddad Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, M.a.C, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran Zahra Sadat Mirzazadeh Faculty Member, Department of Sports Management, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran 0000-0003-4321-5151 Amir Moghaddam Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Ma.c, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran Mahdi Talebpour Faculty Member, Department of Sports Management, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran 0000-0003-2865-5837 Journal Article 2025 07 14 Background and Purpose: The aim of the current research was to design a strategic plan for optimal management of elderly sports in Iran using the Metaswat technique. The research is applied in terms of targeting and descriptive-analytical in terms of research method.<br><br>Methods : In the qualitative part of the research, the study focused on identifying the goals, resources, capabilities, and environmental factors that influence the development of sports for the elderly. This was achieved through comprehensive library studies, which provided foundational knowledge and context. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with ten experts, including physical training managers, public sports managers, and professors of sports sciences. Their expertise and insights were instrumental in gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in promoting sports among the elderly population.<br><br>Results : The findings of the Metaswat planning model revealed that Iran holds a competitive advantage over its neighboring countries in promoting an active lifestyle and fostering social and psychological acceptance of sports for the elderly. Key insights from the study highlighted several strengths: the country possesses valuable and inimitable strengths in the effectiveness of its executive bodies and the methods of sports management. Additionally, the legal environment and governance surrounding sports were identified as urgent areas requiring attention. The development of public sports across various societal strata emerged as the most significant resource, complemented by the availability of free sports facilities and recreational environments tailored for the elderly population. These factors collectively underscore the potential for enhancing elderly sports in Iran.<br><br>Conclusion : The study suggests that Iran possesses valuable, inimitable resources and capabilities for enhancing elderly sports, highlighting the need for strategic planning and management to leverage these advantages. Background and Purpose: The aim of the current research was to design a strategic plan for optimal management of elderly sports in Iran using the Metaswat technique. The research is applied in terms of targeting and descriptive-analytical in terms of research method.<br><br>Methods : In the qualitative part of the research, the study focused on identifying the goals, resources, capabilities, and environmental factors that influence the development of sports for the elderly. This was achieved through comprehensive library studies, which provided foundational knowledge and context. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with ten experts, including physical training managers, public sports managers, and professors of sports sciences. Their expertise and insights were instrumental in gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in promoting sports among the elderly population.<br><br>Results : The findings of the Metaswat planning model revealed that Iran holds a competitive advantage over its neighboring countries in promoting an active lifestyle and fostering social and psychological acceptance of sports for the elderly. Key insights from the study highlighted several strengths: the country possesses valuable and inimitable strengths in the effectiveness of its executive bodies and the methods of sports management. Additionally, the legal environment and governance surrounding sports were identified as urgent areas requiring attention. The development of public sports across various societal strata emerged as the most significant resource, complemented by the availability of free sports facilities and recreational environments tailored for the elderly population. These factors collectively underscore the potential for enhancing elderly sports in Iran.<br><br>Conclusion : The study suggests that Iran possesses valuable, inimitable resources and capabilities for enhancing elderly sports, highlighting the need for strategic planning and management to leverage these advantages. https://www.sportrc.ir/article_232457_a07ba9c1dcd19e02d382aaf90245d111.pdf