Physical activity stages of change in African American women: implications for nurse practitioners

We examined stages of change in the physical activity in African American women aged 17 to 64 years (N = 104) who obtain primary health care. Forty-seven percent of the women had at least 1 chronic health problem that required treatment. Overweight or obesity was found in 66% of the women. The majority of women were in the precontemplation (21%) and contemplation (19%) stages of change; 27% were preparing to become active. Forty percent were classified as very low active; 34%, low active; and only 26% were moderate or high active. Simple logistic regressions showed that women who were inactive during adolescence were 6 times more likely than other women to be in an early stage of change in physical activity (precontemplation or contemplation stage). Women who were self-motivated to be physically active, had support of friends and family, and enjoyed physical activity were more likely than other women to be in maintenance stage of activity. This article provides information on ways to use the stages of change and associated factors to move patients from inactivity to activity and help them remain active in the long term.