Religiosity, self-efficacy, acculturation, and social support correlate higher physical activity among church going Latinas

Few studies examine psychosocial, cultural, and religiosity correlates of physical activity (PA) in churchgoing Latinas, a subgroup at high risk for chronic diseases. The goal of this study is to examine associations between religiosity, self-efficacy and social support to PA, acculturation, and different levels of PA among churchgoing Latinas. We hypothesized the following: (1) a positive relation between religiosity, self-efficacy and social support to PA, acculturation, and moderate and vigorous leisure-time physical activity (LTPA); (2) a positive association between church attendance and LTPA.

Methods: Latinas (N=97) were recruited from a church setting in San Diego County. Women completed a self-administered survey assessing moderate and vigorous levels of LTPA, demographics, acculturation, religiosity, social support and self-efficacy to PA.

Results: The mean age of the participants was 42 ± 9.6 years. Most women were Spanish-speakers (77%), and born in Mexico (93%). The mean acculturation score was 1.75 ± .70. Approximately, 52% of participants reported engaging in moderate LTPA (M=62 ± 57 min/week) while 39% engaged in vigorous LTPA (M=82 ± 51min/week). All participants reported attending church services at least two times a month. Approximately, 83% of participants reported finding strength and comfort in their religion everyday.

Conclusion: Consistent with previous research, participants did not meet the CDC's recommendations of moderate or vigorous PA. Findings will show the extent to which cultural, psychosocial, and religious factors impact different levels of PA. Study results will build on the modest amount of research that examines important correlates of activity among churchgoing Latinas.