Women's Health, Cultural Norms, and Barriers to Physical Activity in Conservative Societies

Abstract:
 Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU) Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU) 3Jordan University of Science & Technology The socialization of women in conservative societies requires the careful balancing of family obligations and personal safety. This balancing, along with the shaming of women in sports, can hinder their participation. The current paper aims at viewing physical inactivity of women as a socio-medical problem. It explains how modesty dictations, patriarchal family structure, restricted mobility, mixed gender concerns, and absence of access to women-only facilities influence not engaging in exercise behaviour. These obstacles limit women’s access to sport, active travel, recreational activity and structured exercise, leading to increased risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mental health and quality of life issues. It has been exemplified in the review that the physical activity of women cannot be promoted through just biomedical advice. The interventions must be culturally sensitive and be community-based. Further, it should respond to local religious and social expectations. Women-focused exercise areas, sure transport, modest-friendly offers, involvement of family and faith leaders, gender-sensitive health education, sensitive public policy, etc may boost participation without hurting values. A sociomedical approach to women's health highlights the role of the social environment that enables or constrains movement, along with individual motivation. In conservative societies, families, communities, health systems, urban planning and policy need to work together to enhance women’s physical activities.