Physical Activity Interventions in Minority Populations

Racial/ethnic minority groups in the United States report high rates of inactivity and need intervention because of the associated health risks. This article discusses the use of informational, environmental and policy, and behavioral and social approaches to increase physical activity in minority populations. Although all of the strategies have been used with varying degrees of success, social support interventions have been particularly effective and appealing to minority individuals, with an emphasis on using culturally relevant support sources (churches). Individually adapted behavior change programs have also shown promise, but most studies have relied on group formats. Further examination is needed to determine if using familiar, low-cost technology (ie, text messaging) to deliver these individually adapted physical activity programs would increase their reach in minority communities. Finally, to promote sustainable changes, future directions should focus on creating or increasing access to places for physical activity in minority communities.