Objectively Measured Physical Activity, Exercise Goals and Body Image among African American Females: Preliminary Results

Abstract

Overweight, obesity, and inactivity are higher among African American females than Caucasian females. Understanding PA correlates would help with the development of culturally effective interventions among African American females. PURPOSE: Examine associations among exercise goals, body image and PA among African American females. METHODS: A convenience sample of 31 African American females (19 to 74 yrs., mean age 50.53+14.29) participated in the study. Height, weight, and waist circumference were measured using standardized procedures. Participants completed a demographic survey, the Goal Content for Exercise Questionnaire (GCEQ, Sebire et al., 2008), and body image (current vs. ideal) was assessed using culturally sensitive body silhouettes (Pulvers et al., 2004). The GCEQ measures two extrinsic and three intrinsic goals. Physical activity was assessed over 7-days with a ActiGraph GT1M accelerometer. RESULTS: Descriptives and correlations were conducted to examine associations among GCEQ, body image, and physical activity. Accelerometer data was processed using NHANES criteria. 4 valid days were required for analysis, including 1 weekend day. Based upon accelerometer data, participants were classified as meeting (N=5) or not meeting current (N= 26) moderate intensity PA guidelines (USDHHS, 2008). ANOVA revealed significant differences in light intensity (210.31 vs. 104 min·day-1), moderate intensity (48.19 vs. 9.96 min·day-1), and steps (10761.23 vs. 4912.24 min·day-1) between participants meeting and not meeting PA guidelines. There were no significant differences in intrinsic or extrinsic goals; current vs. ideal body image; body mass index or waist circumference between participants meeting and not meeting PA guidelines. Pearson correlations revealed significant associations between light intensity (r=.80, p<.01) and moderate intensity (r=.93, p <.01) with step counts. CONCLUSION: In this convenience sample of African American women, there does not appear to be associations between exercise goals or body image and PA. Associations between light and moderate intensity with step counts suggests that PA guidelines can be met with low-moderate intensity recommendations and encouraging 10,000 steps·day-1.