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Physical Activity Barriers and Assets in Rural Appalachian Kentucky: A Mixed-Methods Study

Author

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  • Natalie Jones

    (Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA)

  • Deirdre Dlugonski

    (Sports Medicine Research Institute, College of Health Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA)

  • Rachel Gillespie

    (Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA)

  • Emily DeWitt

    (Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA)

  • Joann Lianekhammy

    (Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA)

  • Stacey Slone

    (Department of Statistics, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA)

  • Kathryn M. Cardarelli

    (Department of Health, Behavior & Society, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40504, USA)

Abstract

Obesity is an increasing public health concern in the U.S. and a contributor to chronic illness, with trends revealing a rise in adult obesity and chronic disease rates among the most vulnerable and disadvantaged populations, including those in rural communities. A mixed-methods approach was used to examine perspectives on perceived physical activity barriers, resources, and level of community support. Researchers utilized the socioecological model to examine the multiple domains that support physical activity in rural Appalachia. The present study focuses on baseline data, including a cohort survey to assess physical activity, health status, and barriers to physical activity, and five focus groups with elected community leaders, community residents, members, and key stakeholders to assess perspectives on physical activity barriers and resources within the county. The cohort survey sample ( N = 152) reported a median of 6 barriers (range 0–13) to participating in at least 30 min of physical activity daily. The qualitative analysis yielded three overarching themes related to physical activity participation: lack of motivation, physical environment, and cultural barriers. This mixed-methods study revealed the challenges and perceptions among rural residents across the socioecological model when assessing physical inactivity. Findings can be used to tailor future interventions focused on expanding social support, designing infrastructure, and creating policies that promote physical activity.

Suggested Citation

  • Natalie Jones & Deirdre Dlugonski & Rachel Gillespie & Emily DeWitt & Joann Lianekhammy & Stacey Slone & Kathryn M. Cardarelli, 2021. "Physical Activity Barriers and Assets in Rural Appalachian Kentucky: A Mixed-Methods Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(14), pages 1-12, July.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:14:p:7646-:d:596704
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Emily DeWitt & Rachel Gillespie & Heather Norman-Burgdolf & Kathryn M. Cardarelli & Stacey Slone & Alison Gustafson, 2020. "Rural SNAP Participants and Food Insecurity: How Can Communities Leverage Resources to Meet the Growing Food Insecurity Status of Rural and Low-Income Residents?," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(17), pages 1-14, August.
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    Cited by:

    1. Xue Zhang & Mildred E. Warner, 2023. "Linking Urban Planning, Community Environment, and Physical Activity: A Socio-Ecological Approach," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(4), pages 1-15, February.

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