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Environmental barriers and enablers to physical activity participation among rural adults: A qualitative study

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 12:28 authored by Verity ClelandVerity Cleland, Clarissa HughesClarissa Hughes, Thornton, L, Kathryn Squibb, Alison VennAlison Venn, Ball, K

Issue addressed: Social-ecological models of health behaviour acknowledge environmental influences, but research examining how the environment shapes physical activity in rural settings is limited. This study aimed to explore the environmental factors that act as barriers or facilitators to physical activity participation among rural adults.

Methods: Forty-nine adults from three regions of rural Tasmania, Australia, participated in semi-structured interviews that explored features of the environment that supported or hindered physical activity. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically.

Results: Four key themes emerged: functionality, diversity, spaces and places for all and realistic expectations. 'Functionality' included connectivity with other destinations, distance, safety, continuity, supporting infrastructure and surfacing. While there was limited 'diversity' of structured activities and recreational facilities, the importance of easy and convenient access to a natural environment that accommodated physical activity was highlighted. 'Spaces and places for all' highlighted the importance of shared-use areas, particularly those that were family-and dog-friendly. Despite desires for more physical activity opportunities, many participants had 'realistic expectations' of what was feasible in rural settings.

Conclusions: Functionality, diversity, spaces and places for all and realistic expectations were identified as considerations important for physical activity among rural adults. Further research using quantitative approaches in larger samples is needed to confirm these findings.

So what? Urban-centric views of environmental influences on physical activity are unlikely to be entirely appropriate for rural areas. Evidence-based recommendations are provided for creating new or modifying existing infrastructure to support active living in rural settings.

History

Publication title

Health Promotion Journal of Australia

Volume

26

Pagination

99-104

ISSN

1036-1073

Department/School

Menzies Institute for Medical Research

Publisher

Australian Health Promotion Association

Place of publication

Australia

Rights statement

©? Australian Health Promotion Association 2015

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Behaviour and health

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