A church-based intervention to change attitudes about physical activity among Black adolescent girls: a feasibility study.

OBJECTIVE: To feasibility test a 12-week church-based physical activity intervention that was culturally sensitive, age- and gender specific directed at changing attitudes of Black adolescent girls' to be more physically active. DESIGN AND SAMPLE: A one-group pre- and posttest design was used. A convenience sample of Black adolescent girls between the age of 12-18 (n = 41). INTERVENTION: A 60-min 12-week church-based program that included interactive educational sessions followed by a high energy dance aerobics class was used. MEASURES: Data were collected on biophysical measures. Surveys were used to assess the following variables: attitudes, enjoyment, self-efficacy, intention, social and family support, and PA levels. RESULTS: Paired t-tests and repeated measures ANOVA revealed no significant changes in key variables. Positive changes were noted in the odds ratios for attitudes, self-efficacy, and intention. Body mass index, metabolic equivalent tasks, and fitness showed positive trends from pre to post intervention. Family support was significantly correlated with physical activity level (p < .01). CONCLUSIONS: The study showed that physical activity programs in Black churches aimed at Black adolescent girls are feasible. Participants evaluated the intervention very favorably. Family support may be a key factor in increasing physical activity levels in Black adolescent girls.

Physical inactivity in female African-American adolescents: consequences, costs, & care.

Physical inactivity is a major public health problem and there is a higher prevalence of physical inactivity in female African-American adolescents. Physical inactivity is an independent risk factor for many chronic diseases such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and obesity, which are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Therefore, addressing physical inactivity during adolescence may be a key to reducing health disparities and to improving the health of female African-American adolescents both now and in their future womanhood. This paper presents an overview of the substantial health and economic consequences that are associated with physical inactivity. In addition, family focused, community-oriented, and church-based strategies that are aimed at increasing physical activity in female African-American adolescents are discussed.