Obesity is associated with many diseases that affect children, adolescent and adults across the globe regardless of status or race. The purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence of obesity among former premier league soccer players in Bindura district of Mashonaland Central province in Zimbabwe. A quantitative methodology was employed and a descriptive survey design was used. A sample size of 20 former players aged between 40 and 60 years was utilized who played soccer at premium league and at national team level. Purposive sampling technique was used. A questionnaire was used to record data such as the weight, height and body mass index (BMI) from the respondents and a BMI calculator was used to calculate their BMI. The results revealed that some of the former players were overweight or obesity and they had knowledge about obesity and its complications. Lack of physical activity, self-motivation, guidance and counseling during the transition period and sedentary life style were cited as the major contributing factors leading to obesity. Conclusion: There is need to intensify physical activity within communities, have health education focused on ways that will help prevent and empower the community with the requisite knowledge about obesity and its effects for them to maintain a good health lifestyle.

Keywords: Obesity, Soccer, Player, Physical activity, Premier soccer league.