Barriers and facilitators to physical activity in second-generation British Indian women: a qualitative study

Background: Approximately 50% of UK South Asian ethnic groups are born in the UK, and this group is increasing as the second-generation also have children. Previous research into the barriers and facilitators to physical activity has focused on migrant, first-generation populations. Qualitative research is needed on how we might further reduce the gap in physical activity levels between White British women and British Indian women.

Methods: We used qualitative methods to understand barriers and motivations for physical activity second-generation British Indian women, using a socioecological model to take into account the wider social and physical contexts. Interviews with first-generation British Indian women were also included to provide a comparator. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 28 Indian women living in Manchester, England. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, thematically coded and analysed using a grounded theory approach.

Results: Ways of socialising, concerns over appearance while being physically active, safety concerns and prioritising educational attainment in adolescence were the cited barriers. Facilitators for physical activity included acknowledging the importance of taking time out for oneself; religious beliefs and religious groups promoting activity; being prompted by family illness; positive messages in both the media and while at school, and having local facilities to use.

Conclusions: Barriers to physical activity in second-generation Indian women were very similar to those already reported for White British women. Public health measures aimed at women in the general population may also positively affect second-generation Indian women. First-generation Indian women, second-generation children and Muslim women may to respond better to culturally tailored interventions.