Moms on the move: A qualitative exploration of a postpartum group exercise program on physical activity behaviour at three distinct time points. Issue 1 (31st December 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lesser, Iris A.; Nienhuis, Carl P.; Hatfield, Gillian L.
• Is Part Of: International journal of qualitative studies on health and well-being. Volume 18:Issue 1(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-12-31
• Subjects: Postpartum -- exercise -- mental health -- identity -- physical activity; Qualitative research -- Periodicals; Health -- Research -- Methodology -- Periodicals; 362.1072
• DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2023.2172793
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1748-2623

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Purpose: Physical activity (PA) after the birth of a child is associated with improved physical and mental health benefits. The aim of the study was to explore new mothers' experiences of PA before and after participation in a group-based PA program for new mothers. The study has three research questions: how new mothers felt; 1) about PA after the birth of their child 2) about engaging in a group-based PA program and 3) after the program ended about ongoing PA engagement. Methods: We conducted an 8-week bi-weekly PA program for postpartum women. To understand the experience of postpartum women engaging in a group-based PA program we conducted one-on-one semi-structured interviews before, after, and at 6-month follow-up. Results: Of the n = 21 participants in the Moms on the Move study; n = 17 completed pre interviews.s. One primary theme emerged from pre-program interviews where mothers shared how they were lost as to where to start PA. Post-program interviews produced two primary themes; engaging in PA helped mothers, and mothers learned to rethink PA. Conclusions: Postpartum women who participated in this group-based PA program had positive benefits to their mental and physical health and were able to alter their PA behaviour.