Understanding influences on physical activity among female university students in Singapore : a focus group study

• Main Author: Fang, Jia Bin
• Other Authors: Joan Marian Fry
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2013
• Subjects: DRNTU::Social sciences::Psychology::Phenomenology
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/52150
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Individuals can derive health benefits from physical activity only if it is done on a regular basis. The worrying trend of declining physical activity levels with age has been consistently observed and young adulthood has been identified as a phase in which individuals are more likely to lead inactive lifestyles. This study took a qualitative approach to explore the personal and environmental issues influencing physical activity among female university students in Singapore. 13 women aged between 21-46 years took part in focus group discussions. Data were analysed inductively using constant comparison method with open and axial coding. The findings suggest that factors at the various levels - intrapersonal, interpersonal, institutional and community - interact to provide a supportive environment for physical activity among the women. In particular, lack of time and the desire to try something new resonated with this sample group. Recommendations offered by the participants were institutional- and policy-related. Public efforts aimed at improving physical activity levels of the university population should be mindful of the academic demands of the students and provide strategies to increase their motivation to be physically active.