Gender perspective in the study of physical activity

Abstract

There is strong evidence on the benefits of physical activity on human health, however, much of the world’s population does not practice it in line with the recommendations. Epidemiological studies have shown that women, people with lower socioeconomic status and ethnic groups report less physical activity. Despite these inequalities, the role of gender in physical activity has been little explored. Objective: To reflect on the relevance of gender perspective in the study of physical activity, taking as a reference its relevance in the study of health. Methodology: Review of Latin American theoretical contributions of some feminist authors which are relevant to the study of physical activity. Results: Gender perspective enables a greater understanding of the physical activity because it guides the inquiry into aspects little investigated by the traditional approach of its study, in which physical activity is understood as an individual responsibility, ignoring that gender as a system social organization imposes unequal power relations that influence physical activity and any decision regarding to the health. Thus, issues such as work, time use, the body, discourses on the movement and beauty become relevant for understanding physical activity as a lifestyle.