Perceptions of barriers and enablers of physical activity among Emirate women

Abstract

Purpose: Opportunities for physical activity need to be gender and culturally appropriate but little is known about activity attitudes among females in the United Arab Emirates. The aim of this study was to assess female Emirati university students’ perceived barriers to and enablers of physical activity. Methods: Five focus group discussions were conducted with female Emirati university students (n=25) aged between 18-29 years. The study used a semi structured interview. Transcripts of the discussions were analysed and emergent themes identified. Results: Participants had an average age of 20.4 (SD 2.6) years and an average BMI of 26.08 (SD 7.07), and 44% reported difficulty managing their income some of the time. One of the most common themes identified was lack of time due to fulfilling multiple roles associated with work, family and study. Another common theme was family (husband, parent, siblings) discouragement and low support. Family concerns included safety when leaving the house and gender inappropriateness of some activities. Participants who could not drive described family declining to provide transport assistance. Another barrier theme was fatigue which was attributed to eating large portion meals mainly of meat and rice. A final major barrier theme was hot weather. The major enabler was availability of facilities close to home, that were low cost and female only. Participants wanted to do activities with friends. Another enabler was organised physical activity, scheduled into the university timetable, and for credit. An interesting theme emerged regarding social media. Time spent on social media limited discretionary time for physical activity; but social media also provided positive role models, awareness of opportunities, and social support for physical activity. Conclusion: Physical activity opportunities for young adult female Emirati students need to address family negative perceptions and be compatible with work and study commitments. Physical activity facilities need to be in the local area, female only, and provide group-based options.