Exploring the social-ecological factors related to physical activity participation among Black, Asian and minority ethnic immigrants

Abstract

Purpose

Despite the health benefits of physical activity (PA), participation rates Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) adults in the United Kingdom (UK) are low in comparison to the general population. This study aimed to explore the social-ecological factors related to PA participation among BAME immigrants.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 12 purposively selected adults from the BAME populace residing in one postcode district of a city in southern England.

Findings

The three main themes that developed from this study demonstrated that the barriers to PA participation among BAME were perceived to exist at intrapersonal, and environmental (social and physical) levels.

Research limitations/implications

Understanding these unique social-ecological factors may assist in intervention development.

Originality/value

Prominent barriers included intrapersonal factors such as deportation fear and cultural beliefs; and environmental factors such as the cost of accessing PA facilities. Length of residency appeared to be related to increased PA.

Citation

Katito, G. and Davies, E. (2021), "Exploring the social-ecological factors related to physical activity participation among Black, Asian and minority ethnic immigrants", Health Education, Vol. 121 No. 6, pp. 614-631. https://doi.org/10.1108/HE-01-2021-0014