Saudi women’s attitudes toward physical activity: An interventional approach to improving future health

Abstract

The aim of this research was to provide evidence to support physical activity initiatives that improve the quality of life of women in Saudi Arabia. Research on Saudi women correlates higher incidence of obesity, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, and osteoporosis to the lack of exercise in Saudi women’s lifestyle. Hence, this study uses an interventional approach to support efforts that encourage physical activity in Saudi women. A pilot sample of 80 females was interviewed to secure the validity and reliability of the preliminary instrument. The final version of the instrument, consists of (63) items, was distributed to a sample consists of 1233 females aged 15 and up from four main regions in KSA. The results indicate that awareness and positive attitudes toward physical activity exist. Improvement of quality of life can be as simple as lessening the practical impediments. Hopefully, this kind of evidence can better inform decision makers to be more proactive in providing government funded facilities.