Physical Activity: Perspectives of Mexican American and Anglo American Midlife Women

Abstract

Despite the well-known health benefits of physical activity (PA), most midlife and older adults lead sedentary lifestyles. Anglo American women and Mexican Americans of both genders are two of the least physically active groups. We conducted three focus groups to identify attitudes and beliefs about PA among Mexican American and Anglo American midlife women. Our long-term goal was to identify culture-specific interventions that promote long-term PA continuation. Significant differences were found between the two groups. While Anglo American women valued individual outcomes, and spoke of personal factors promoting or preventing exercise, Mexican American women viewed PA as prescriptive, important for restoring health, and cited family responsibilities and family attitudes as factors that promoted or prevented them from exercising. We found that in order for PA interventions to be successful in each group, they must be tailored to the values of each cultural group.

Effects of Acculturation and Access on Recreation Participation Among Latinos

“…Most of this research has shown that Latinos are motivated by strong family values, including the desire to share experiences with family members and to increase bonds among the extended family (Berg, Cromwell, & Arnett, 2002;Hutchison & Fidel, 1984;Hutchison, 1987;Irwin et al, 1990;Pfister & Ewert, 1993). Differences in recreation behavior between Latinos and members of other groups have been traced to a number of factors, including their unique culture and changes in their cultural patterns to that of the "American mainstream" (i.e., acculturation) and access to natural environments.…”

Spirituality and Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior among Latino Men and Women in Massachusetts

“…Third, the study used self-reported physical activity and sedentary to be active. [32][33][34] Latinas in a qualitative study also perceived themselves to be healthy and not in need of physical activity; referring to exercise as a "waste of time." 34 Latinos have also been shown to view exercise as prescriptive and only willing to engage in exercise if prescribed by a doctor in order to reduce the risk or incidence of disease.…”

“…34 Latinos have also been shown to view exercise as prescriptive and only willing to engage in exercise if prescribed by a doctor in order to reduce the risk or incidence of disease. 32,34 In addition, Latinos may believe that high spirituality may be sufficient to improve overall health. Such beliefs may negatively influence participation in health behaviors such as physical activity.…”

Promotoras' Roles in Integrative Validity and Treatment Fidelity Efforts in Randomized Controlled Trials

“…Further, specific environmental characteristics and community level factors have led to hypotheses regarding the importance of the physical neighborhood in either enhancing or reducing positive health behavior, and the importance of the perceived neighborhood safety, and pleasantness for health activity efforts. 15,16 Safety is an important factor in health activities, particularly among women with infants and small children. Local walking routes were developed by the research team and implemented by promotoras as they met women in their own neighborhoods; local neighborhoods were chosen for the convenience to new mothers with young children.…”