Journal of Immigrant and Refugee Studies
Volume 10, Issue 2, 2012, Pages 139-161

South Asian Women's Beliefs About Physical Activity and Dancing as a Form of Exercise (Article)

Vahabi M.* , Beanlands H. , Sidani S. , Fredericks S.
  • a Centre for Global Health and Health Equity, Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Faculty of Community Services, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria St, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
  • b Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Faculty of Community Services, Toronto, ON, Canada
  • c Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Faculty of Community Services, Toronto, ON, Canada
  • d Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Faculty of Community Services, Toronto, ON, Canada

Abstract

South Asian (SA) immigrant women in Canada are at greater risk of contracting and dying from heart disease than their white Canadian counterparts. Low levels of physical activity (PA), a modifiable risk factor for heart disease, have been reported in the SA community. This study investigated the acceptability of culturally specific dance in enhancing SA women's engagement in PA. Two focus group sessions were held, involving a total of 16 SA women. Participants reported limited knowledge about the overall health benefits of PA. Chief barriers to PA were lack of time and motivation. Dancing was considered the most enjoyable PA, which could burn calories and act as a social outlet. Participants indicated that despite their community's diversity, a "women-only dance class" led by a community female dance instructor, combined with childcare services, would be acceptable. © 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.

Author Keywords

culture culturally tailored interventions culturally specific dancing South Asian Women physical activity

Index Keywords

Canada activity pattern Asian immigrant cultural relations health belief health services womens status health risk child care womens health health impact cardiovascular disease
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84862325043&doi=10.1080%2f15562948.2012.674002&partnerID=40&md5=96a20d461a4a2ab8683bd8538486a011
DOI: 10.1080/15562948.2012.674002
ISSN: 15562948
Cited by: 2
Original Language: English