Barriers and Facilitators to Muscle-Strengthening Activity Among Latinas in the U.S.: Results From Formative Research Assessments.
Int J Behav Med
; 31(2): 292-304, 2024 Apr.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-37231222
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Latinas are disproportionately affected by low physical activity (PA) levels and related health conditions (e.g., diabetes, obesity). Few Latinas in the U.S. (17%) meet the National PA Guidelines for both aerobic PA and muscle-strengthening activity (MSA), yet, research to date in this population has focused almost exclusively on aerobic PA. Performing regular MSA is linked with numerous health improvements and reduced mortality; thus, may be key to addressing health disparities in this community. This study examined perspectives on engaging in MSA among Latinas enrolled in two aerobic PA RCTs.METHODS:
Brief quantitative surveys were conducted to assess interest in MSA among Latinas (N = 81), along with 19 follow-up in-depth semi-structured interviews on knowledge, barriers, and facilitators for engaging in regular MSA. Interview transcripts were analyzed by two independent bilingual researchers using a directed content analysis approach.RESULTS:
Eighty-one Latinas (18-65 years) completed the survey. Most (91%) expressed interest in learning more about MSA and 60% reported not knowing how to do MSA as a substantial MSA barrier. Interview results indicated Latinas were aware of health benefits of MSA and motivated to engage in MSA but reported barriers (e.g., perception that MSA is for men, a taboo topic, and lack of knowledge on how to do MSA).CONCLUSION:
This study contributes to a critical gap in PA research among Latinas. Findings will inform future culturally appropriate MSA interventions in this at-risk population. Addressing MSA and aerobic PA together in future interventions will provide a more comprehensive approach to reducing PA-related health disparities in Latinas than aerobic PA alone.Palabras clave
Texto completo:
1
Bases de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Ejercicio Físico
/
Entrenamiento de Fuerza
Tipo de estudio:
Qualitative_research
Límite:
Adolescent
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Adult
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Aged
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Female
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Humans
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Middle aged
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Int J Behav Med
Asunto de la revista:
CIENCIAS DO COMPORTAMENTO
Año:
2024
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
Estados Unidos