Young women's leisure time physical activity determinants: a mixed methods approach

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sports Science
• Sociology

Background:

• Understanding factors influencing physical activity is crucial for public health initiatives.
• Leisure Time Physical Activity (LTPA) participation varies significantly among young women.
• Gipuzkoa, Spain, presents a specific demographic for studying LTPA habits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the habits, motives, and barriers related to LTPA in young women in Gipuzkoa.
• To employ a mixed-methods approach for comprehensive data collection.
• To identify key determinants of LTPA engagement in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was utilized.
• Quantitative data collected via the Gipuzkoa Women's Physical Activity Questionnaire (GWPAQ) from 526 women (aged 18-29).
• Qualitative data gathered through interviews with seven participants.

Main Results:

• Primary motives for LTPA include intrapersonal factors (health, enjoyment) and interpersonal networks.
• Significant barriers to LTPA are predominantly intrapersonal (lack of time, fatigue, laziness).
• Contextual factors like safe spaces, prior negative experiences, and motor competence self-perception also influence LTPA habits.

Conclusions:

• LTPA motives are diverse, encompassing health, enjoyment, and social connections.
• Intrapersonal barriers significantly impede consistent LTPA participation among young women.
• Policy development should consider the multifaceted barriers and diverse needs to effectively promote LTPA.