Influences on physical activity participation among Latinas: an ecological perspective.
OBJECTIVE
To explore intrapersonal, social environmental, and physical environmental influences that promote or impede total physical activity (TPA) among Latinas in Lee County, Florida.


METHODS
In-depth interviews (n=41) and face-to-face surveys (n=358).


RESULTS
Women who worked outside the home, had positive attitudes about activity, perceived themselves to have access to activity facilities, and perceived their neighborhood to be safe reported higher TPA. Women who had more education and whose health information source was radio had lower TPA.


CONCLUSIONS
Intrapersonal and environmental factors influence TPA levels among Latinas. Segmenting Latina groups using these factors may promote more involvement in physical activity through targeted programs and messages.
López
Ivette A
IA
Institute of Public Health, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
Bryant
Carol A
CA
McDermott
Robert J
RJ
D000328:Adult; D003710:Demography; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006630:Hispanic or Latino / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D007843:Latin America / Q000453:epidemiology; D008875:Middle Aged; D009043:Motor Activity; D012931:Social Environment; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology; D055815:Young Adult