I Prefer High-Intensity Exercise—A Qualitative Study of Men’s Experiences with a Nature-Based Exercise Program for People with Arthritis
2024

Men's Experiences with Nature-Based Exercise for Arthritis

Sample size: 14 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Andersson Signe, Ahler Jonas Risum, Tang Lars Hermann, Aagaard Thomas Vedste, Skou Søren T., Simonÿ Charlotte

Primary Institution: The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, Denmark

Hypothesis

What engages and restrains men with arthritis from participating in a nature-based exercise program?

Conclusion

Men with arthritis prefer high-intensity exercise and are less motivated by social aspects in nature-based exercise programs.

Supporting Evidence

  • Men with arthritis are less likely to participate in rehabilitation compared to women.
  • Only 8% of participants in the nature-based exercise program were men.
  • Participants expressed confusion about the program's purpose and target audience.
  • Men preferred high-intensity exercises over social interactions during workouts.

Takeaway

This study found that men with arthritis want to exercise more intensely and don't care much about socializing during workouts.

Methodology

Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis.

Limitations

The study does not include perspectives of men who dropped out early from the program.

Participant Demographics

Participants were men aged 56-79, mostly retired, with various arthritis diagnoses.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/ijerph21121606

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