Barriers towards exercise and physical activity of different ethnic groups in middle-aged female Singaporeans

Abstract

The government has collaborated with the Health Promotion Board in coming out a bountiful of initiatives for the citizens to engage in exer-cise. Despite the initiatives, the obesity rate in middle-aged women is still high. This study seeks to understand and identify the vast barriers that prevent middle-aged women from exercising. Purposive sampling and semi-structured interview were conducted for the participants. The analysis of the interview revealed the significance of barriers in three areas: Priority of Family and Work Commitments, Minimal Promotion of Subsidized Initiatives by the Government, and Discrimination through the Usage of Language. It highlights that racial barriers are minimal and better time management would be appropriate to engage a healthier lifestyle. The study suggested female Singaporeans to incorporate sports in the lifestyle, more aggressive promotion of subsidized initia-tives and the use of common languages (English) in the exercise class.