Exploring the meaning of, the barriers to and potential strategies for promoting physical activity among urban Indigenous Australians.
OBJECTIVE
There is evidence that many of the chronic lifestyle-related problems faced by Australia's Indigenous population are related to physical inactivity. However, little is known as to how to introduce physical activity programs that will be meaningful, relevant and acceptable to Australia's Indigenous people.


METHODS
Seventeen focus groups involving 96 Indigenous adult participants, explored the meaning of, the barriers to, and potential strategies for promoting physical activity among urban Indigenous Australians. Indigenous researchers moderated the groups and data were transcribed verbatim and analysed independently.


RESULTS
The relationship between physical activity and health was well understood by participants. Commonly reported activities undertaken by participants included walking, domestic chores and specific sports. Barriers to activity included being judged by others when in public spaces, cost and accessibility. Family engagement and group-based activities were strong motivators for participation.


CONCLUSIONS
Attempts to increase physical activity among urban Indigenous Australians must engage the community from the outset, and focus on increased opportunities for family-orientated activities, and/or group walking programs; cost and safety must also be addressed.
Hunt
Julian
J
School of Human Movement Studies, University of Queensland.
Marshall
Alison L
AL
Jenkins
David
D
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003256:Community Participation; D004779:Environment Design; D005190:Family / Q000208:ethnology / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009043:Motor Activity; D011287:Prejudice; D012449:Safety; D012737:Sex Factors; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D014504:Urban Health