Healthy lifestyle, physical education, and sports for Saudi women

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background : Wisdom holds that healthy and fit citizens ensure more successful national development plans. In its transition to a knowledge-based economy (Vision 2030), Saudi Arabia is depending on women’s contributions and leadership. But Saudi females have historically lacked access to physical education or sports as evident in their compromised health status (44% obesity rate) compared to the national average (35.4%), which is nearly three times as high as the global average (13%). Purpose : This study demonstrated the benefit of soliciting health and sports-related academic specialists’ voices to address the paucity of research that could inform policy and curricular decisions around healthy lifestyle, physical education, and sports access for Saudi women. Method : This exploratory qualitative study (2020–2021) involved N = 11 semi-structured interviews (purposive sampling) with Saudi faculty members (kinesiology, sports, physical education, and related specializations). The eight, mostly open-ended interview questions were inspired by existing work on international women’s health issues. A thematic analysis revealed participants’ learned insights and opinions about this issue. Findings : Four themes emerged. Participants opined that (a) education should be used to improve women’s health, (b) everyone’s lifestyle can be improved through educating women, (c) policymakers must be held accountable for ensuring access to relevant curricula and infrastructure, and (d) gender health equality must be in place to ensure women’s healthy lifestyles. Conclusion : Exploratory research is beneficial when little is known about a phenomenon. It helps researchers better clarify the nature of the problem, and findings often serve as groundwork for future studies. Participants supported physical education curricula and a fitness infrastructure for Saudi women. A focus on healthy lifestyles through physical education classes and sports engagement via related infrastructure is strongly recommended as an important action for Saudi policymakers. This would help create a cultural imperative of healthy citizens for national development especially through women’s health and physical fitness.