Physical Activity and Health Beliefs among Saudi Women

Abstract

Background. Physical activity (PA) is associated with health benefits and disease prevention and is often prescribed in managing many health conditions. Understanding the cultural influences is relevant in order to effectively promote PA. The objective of this study was to assess the level of PA among Saudi women, measured by daily step count, and the association between PA and health beliefs. Methods. A total of 161 eligible participants were asked to complete two questionnaires to assess health beliefs: Health Locus of Control (HLC) and Self-Efficacy Assessment Scale. Each participant was given a pedometer and a diary to record their daily PA for two weeks. Results. One hundred and five participants completed the two weeks pedometer data (mean age 26.3 ± 7.1 years, BMI 25 ± 4.2 kg/m2). The average pedometer score over two weeks was 5114 ± 2213 steps. Step count had strong correlation with self-efficacy (r s = 0.75), mild correlation with internal HLC (r s = 0.42), and mild negative correlation with external HLC (r s = −0.35). Conclusion. The study demonstrates high level of inactivity among Saudi females in reference to the international recommendation for minimum activity. The data also reveal an association between PA and health beliefs. Ultimately, such information can be used to design gender- and culture-sensitive interventions that could enhance adherence to PA.

Physical Activity Level and Adult Saudi Health Related Quality of Life

“…During the last few decades, adult Saudi had enjoyed the modern Western civilization but at the same time had progressively suffered from its disadvantage; obesity and inactivity. Several Saudi studies reported increases in the percentage of adult Saudis with low PAL [2]-[5] [20]. Need to investigate the relationship between PAL and HRQoL was raised by the above mentioned facts.…”

Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior Relative to Body Mass Index among School Children in Saudi Arabia

“…As a result, great changes in physical activity and eating habits have occurred in our society and low levels of physical activity and sedentary living are becoming increasingly prevalent among the Saudi children [13]. Overweight and obesity is becoming a public health concern among Saudi population of all ages [5,[14][15][16]. Moreover, with massive urbanization and increased reliance on computer and telecommunication technology, further reductions in physical activity are projected for the coming years [11,17].…”

“…It is estimated that different cultural beliefs influence various health outcomes. Social and cultural influences play a major role in promoting physical activity [15]. The majority of children and teen do not meet the current guidelines suggested by experts of a minimum of 60 minutes duration of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day [18].…”

Correlation between Obesity and Coronary Heart Disease Risk among Saudi Subjects at Madinah Region

“…Saudi Arabia, considered a rapidly developing country, faces progressive urbanization and the fast adoption of a western lifestyle contributing to rise CVD burden [17]. Significant proportion among younger aged population is at increased risk for the development of hard coronary heart events [3,18].…”