Background/Purpose This study sought to understand the meanings, facilitators, and barriers of physical activity participation among Chinese female international graduate students enrolled in the American higher education system.
Method Twenty Chinese female international graduate students (M age =27.5, SD =2.1) were recruited and interviewed. A one-on-one semi-structured interview method was used. Multiple qualitative research methods were used to ensure trustworthiness of the procedures employed.
Analysis/Results The general meanings of physical activity included a break from work, a feeling of accomplishment, and a time to be alone. The general facilitators included social influence, physical resources, changing perceptions of femininity, heath improvement, and leisure and social opportunities. The general barriers included a lack of time, a lack of self-efficacy, a lack of social support, feelings of embarrassment, cultural barriers, and a lack of information. Overall, the social influences of American society had a profound impact on the participants in terms of their attitudes toward and participation in physical activity. In addition, American culture also modified many of the participants' perceptions of femininity from traditional values in China, such as “paper thin,” white skinned, quiet, and inactive women to “healthy,” “fit,” tanned skin, and an active image. The environmental resources facilitated their behavior, but were also somewhat overwhelming for them because they lacked the knowledge and skills necessary to use all of the available resources.
Conclusions When universities provide physical activity promotion programs for international students, they should consider strategies to protect their emotional responses, decrease their negative feelings, and increase their self-esteem.
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