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Environmental barriers and enablers to physical activity participation among rural adults: a qualitative study
Author(s) -
Cleland Verity,
Hughes Clarissa,
Thornton Lukar,
Squibb Kathryn,
Venn Alison,
Ball Kylie
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
health promotion journal of australia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.515
H-Index - 32
eISSN - 2201-1617
pISSN - 1036-1073
DOI - 10.1071/he14115
Subject(s) - recreation , diversity (politics) , built environment , qualitative research , physical activity , rural area , destinations , public relations , psychology , sociology , geography , medicine , ecology , political science , tourism , social science , archaeology , pathology , anthropology , physical medicine and rehabilitation , biology
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.

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