Physical activity guideline adherence among Canadian immigrant youth: A qualitative exploratory study
Abstract
The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) Youth Physical Activity Guidelines are the national criterion standard for youth physical activity. Minimal research exists regarding CSEP Guideline adherence in immigrant youth despite this population’s significance in Canada. The purpose of this study was to foster an understanding of physical activity guideline adherence
in Albertan immigrant youth. The study objectives were to determine Albertan immigrant youth’s adherence levels, barriers to adherence, recommendations to improve adherence, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adherence. A qualitative exploratory design was used. Purposive sampling from Edmonton community-agencies occurred to generate a sample of 6 community service-workers who have experience with Canadian immigrant youth and physical
activity. Data collection occurred through virtual semi-structured interviews. Data analysis occurred via Braun and Clarke’s Six Thematic Analysis Steps. This study’s findings can optimize nursing health promotion efforts and organizational policies, inform health promotion
protocols in nursing education, and guide further research that would enhance the breadth of current literature. Collectively, this study helps provide a foundation for promoting the health of Albertan immigrant youth.
Notes
Community organizations:
1) William Lutsky Family YMCA
2) Crystal Kids Youth Centre
3) Metro Athletics Edmonton
4) Mother Margaret Mary High School
5) True Blue Swim School
6) Edmonton Youth Basketball Association
7) Kate Chegwin School
8) Mill Woods Recreation Centre
Future research / gaps identified: Qualitative data from a small sample cannot be generalized to the wider population of Albertan immigrant youth.
Key recommendations:
1) Increase accessibility to physical activities for immigrant youth
2) Increase education on the importance and benefits of physical activity.
3) Promote mentorship for immigrant youth in physical activity, exercise and sports.
Integration timeline: not defined
Key findings:
1) Multiple barriers to CSEP guideline adherence included low familiarity with physical activity, inaccessibility, finances, and competing responsibilities
2) Low adherence level to CSEP guidelines indicated significant under-adherence that was worsened by the pandemic
Key populations: immigrant youth in Edmonton, AB
Location: Edmonton, AB
Open access: Yes