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Barriers and Facilitators to Muscle-Strengthening Activity Among Latinas in the U.S.: Results From Formative Research Assessments

Citation:

Benitez, T. J., Artigas, E., Larsen, B., Joseph, R. P., Pekmezi, D., Marquez, B., Whitworth, J. W., et al. (2023). Barriers and Facilitators to Muscle-Strengthening Activity Among Latinas in the U.S.: Results From Formative Research Assessments. Int J Behav Med.

Date Published:

May 25

Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Latinas are disproportionately affected by low physical activity (PA) levels and related health conditions (e.g., diabetes, obesity). Few Latinas in the U.S. (17%) meet the National PA Guidelines for both aerobic PA and muscle-strengthening activity (MSA), yet, research to date in this population has focused almost exclusively on aerobic PA. Performing regular MSA is linked with numerous health improvements and reduced mortality; thus, may be key to addressing health disparities in this community. This study examined perspectives on engaging in MSA among Latinas enrolled in two aerobic PA RCTs. METHODS: Brief quantitative surveys were conducted to assess interest in MSA among Latinas (N = 81), along with 19 follow-up in-depth semi-structured interviews on knowledge, barriers, and facilitators for engaging in regular MSA. Interview transcripts were analyzed by two independent bilingual researchers using a directed content analysis approach. RESULTS: Eighty-one Latinas (18-65 years) completed the survey. Most (91%) expressed interest in learning more about MSA and 60% reported not knowing how to do MSA as a substantial MSA barrier. Interview results indicated Latinas were aware of health benefits of MSA and motivated to engage in MSA but reported barriers (e.g., perception that MSA is for men, a taboo topic, and lack of knowledge on how to do MSA). CONCLUSION: This study contributes to a critical gap in PA research among Latinas. Findings will inform future culturally appropriate MSA interventions in this at-risk population. Addressing MSA and aerobic PA together in future interventions will provide a more comprehensive approach to reducing PA-related health disparities in Latinas than aerobic PA alone.

Notes:

1532-7558Benitez, Tanya JOrcid: 0000-0003-2691-2019Artigas, EileenLarsen, BrittaJoseph, Rodney PPekmezi, DoriMarquez, BeckyWhitworth, James WMarcus, Bess H3r01ca159954-08s1/nih/nci/Journal ArticleEnglandInt J Behav Med. 2023 May 25. doi: 10.1007/s12529-023-10183-0.