survey physical activity status of employed women in Hamadan university of medical sciences: the relationship between the benefits, barriers, self-efficacy and stages of change

ABSTRACT

From the health perspective one of the most important problems in contemporary society is decreasing appropriate physical activity among individuals. Moderate physical activity reduces the risk of mortality and morbidity from heart disease and has a great impact on high blood pressure, diabetes ii, osteoporosis, colon cancer, and obesity. Physical activity can also have positive psychological effects, with lower levels of anxiety and depression thus enhancing self-confidence. In addition, epidemiological studies have shown that physically in active lifestyle increases mortality. Unfortunately, despite much physical and mental health benefits, many people do not exercise adequately. The purpose of this study is to determine the status of physical activity in employed women. This is a cross-sectional study conducted on 230 women employed at Hamedan University of Medical Sciences with stratified sampling among various departments of the university. The data collection tool used in this study was a standardized questionnaire. Finally, using SPSS software version 13 the data were analyzed with Spearman correlation test. The results showed that over 65% of the subjects did not have enough mobility; 25.7% of them had irregular exercise and only 8.7% did daily and regular exercise. Statistically a significant relationship was found between the benefits, barriers, self-efficacy and stages of change [p<0.05]. Due to a high prevalence of inactivity among women, educational classes for women seems to be necessary. Also adequate provision of sports facilities can promote physical activity in women