Exercise culture among new immigrants from africa living in the midwestern United States

Introduction: This qualitative study uses phenomenology to investigate exercise culture among African immigrants in the Midwestern U.S. Physical inactivity is a priority health risk behavior and a leading contributor to morbidity and mortality in the country. Immigrants are the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population (Goel et al., 2004). Their health status impacts the country's overall health standing.

Methodology: Open-ended probing interviews were administered in this phenomenological study. Participants (n=32) were recruited through non-probability purposive and snowball sampling procedures. Interview transcripts were analyzed thematically in a stepwise procedure as outlined by Collazi (1978).

Results: Themes emerging from their narratives include a) culture: “women from my country cover their heads if there are men around so we don't like to exercise just anywhere” and “It's difficult to dress lightly for sports because in my culture, such dressing is seen as indecent” b) commitments: “I am a single mother studying fulltime. When my daughter comes home from school, she has to find food ready and I have to assist her with homework. When we are done, I have to start my schoolwork. I don't have time.” and c) personal grooming: “I can't afford to sweat. I just started making dreadlocks and my hair stylist advised me against getting my hair wet lest it untangles.” Discussion: Because of the central role of culture on immigrant exercise behavior, the study recommends that resources on women-only gyms, childcare assisting social support groups, and education debunking hair care myths be made available to this population.