Qualitative examination of physical activity preferences, factors that promote and limit physical activity among African American and Hispanic/Latino men

Minority men are less likely to engage in leisure time physical activity (LTPA) than their white counterparts. Little is known about barriers to LTPA among sedentary African American (AA) and Hispanic/Latino (HL) men. This qualitative study seeks to understand the strengths and limitations associated with gender,culture,and LPTA among AA and HL men between 25–60 years, who were not physically active (< 90 minutes of PA per week). Focus groups (FG) were conducted with AA (n=17; M=47 (SD=±8.2)) men and in–depth–individual interviews with HL men (n=6; M=41 (SD=±8.1)) . Participants were recruited from churches, clinics, and community organizations. FG and interviews lasted 90–120 minutes. Recordings were transcribed verbatim and coded based on apriori themes (PA benefits, barriers, preferences, and social support (SS)); however, also coded for emerging themes. AAs reported enjoying group competitive sports, whereas HLs reported a preference for individual LTPA activities. Men preferred LTPAs congruent with gender expectations of strength, endurance, and physical ability. AA men reported physical appearance as personal motivation for PA, while HL men endorsed commitment to family. Men reported low levels of SS, but acknowledged past LTPA successes were sustained by family members and friends' SS. The men struggled to identify cultural limitations and strengths to LTPA, but upon further query AA and HL noted their respective cultures undervalue LTPA. In conclusion, there are cultural and gender specific differences associated with LTPA between AA and HL men. Future research is needed to determine the best approaches to increasing PA among minority men.