title: Physical activity beliefs, behaviors, and cardiovascular fitness of Mexican immigrant women.
abstract: This descriptive study examined physical activity beliefs, behaviors, and cardiovascular fitness of a convenience sample of 51 married Mexican immigrant women (MIW) with children in Northern California. Standardized tools/procedures were used to measure the variables of interest and to determine cardiovascular fitness levels. The majority (78%) was not involved in regular physical activity and had below average or poor cardiovascular fitness (76%). However, 93% had a positive attitude, were well-informed of the benefits, and perceived physical activity to be a health-promoting behavior. Cultural values and beliefs about physical activity, gender roles, and social and physiological factors were described as barriers to women's intention to engage in physical activity.
authors.affiliation: University of California, San Francisco, USA.
authors.forename: Teresa C
authors.initials: TC
authors.lastname: Juarbe
authors.forename: Juliene G
authors.initials: JG
authors.lastname: Lipson
authors.forename: Xiomara
authors.initials: X
authors.lastname: Turok
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002319:Cardiovascular System; D003469:Culture; D004641:Emigration and Immigration; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D008800:Mexico / Q000208:ethnology; D009043:Motor Activity; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States; D016387:Women's Health