Physical Activity in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

This book critically evaluates the complex relations between physical activity, health imperatives, and cultural and social opportunities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). It explores the uncertainty of knowledge around physical activity behavior and its distinctive meanings in LMIC contexts, the factors influencing physical activity, and how populations understand and live the concept of physical activity. It discusses the key challenges and opportunities for sustaining physical activity within geographically and culturally diverse contexts of LMICs, introduces contemporary global physical activity approaches, models, and policies, and presents case studies from around the world. The text emphasizes the need for targeted, context-specific, and locally relevant interventions to create PA-enabling environments in LMICs and highlights the role of stakeholders in shaping population physical activity levels. It brings together the latest research on PA in LMICs, informs and directs future research and policy change, and seeks to foster and promote population-based PA in LMIC settings.

Format: Hardback
Length: 262 pages
Publication date: 26 November 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate interplay between physical activity, health imperatives, and cultural and social opportunities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). It critically assesses the prevailing uncertainty surrounding physical activity behavior and its unique meanings within these contexts. The book explores the diverse factors influencing physical activity, shedding light on how populations worldwide perceive and engage with the concept of physical activity. It discusses the significant challenges and opportunities for sustaining physical activity across geographically and culturally diverse LMIC settings. It introduces readers to contemporary global approaches, models, and policies related to physical activity. Furthermore, the text presents case studies from various regions, including Asia, Africa, South America, the Pacific, and Europe, showcasing the diverse experiences and strategies employed in promoting physical activity.

The book aims to bridge theory and practical examples, enhancing the understanding of physical activity within its contextual framework. It emphasizes the importance of tailored, context-specific, and locally relevant interventions to create environments that foster physical activity (PA). It highlights the role of a wide range of stakeholders, including policy makers, urban planners, sport and recreation services, mass media, educators, and civil society, in shaping population physical activity levels.

Taken together, this edited volume brings together the latest research on PA in LMICs from around the world, providing valuable insights and guiding future research and policy endeavors toward the sustainable integration of PA opportunities. It seeks to ultimately foster and promote population-based PA in LMIC settings.

By presenting empirical data and policy recommendations, this text appeals to scholars, researchers, and practitioners with an interest in physical activity research, public health, health promotion, sociology of sport, and related fields. It serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to advance the understanding, promotion, and implementation of PA interventions in low- and middle-income countries.

Weight: 578g
Dimension: 163 x 240 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367362232