Designing a Model of Physical Activities of Iranian Young Women

Although the physical activity of young women in Iran is very important, but this phenomenon is less known. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to design a conceptual model of physical activities of Iranian young women.

The methodology of the research was a qualitative method, Grounded Theory (systematic approach). The study population consisted of Iranian women aged 20 to 40 years’ old who were participating in physical activities. Based on the methodology of research, sampling method was theoretical sampling method and theoretical saturation was obtained after conducting 27 Semi-structured interviews with Iranian young women participating in physical activities and review specialized texts (articles, books, websites and so on). The data analysis methods were continuous questions and comparisons.

In the open coding stage, seven main categories in the process of participating sports activities of Iranian young women were identified: (1) Personal Motivations, (2) Promotional Measures, (3) Barriers, (4) Sports Facilities, (5) Trainer, (6) Safety & Security, and (7) physical activities Benefits. Findings also show that "personal motivations" and "promotional actions" are the primary motivators for young women to engage in physical activity, but "facilities", "barriers", "trainer" and "safety and security" play vital roles in decision-making and participation in physical activity, and if conditions are good, young women will continue to participate in physical activities.

Given that Iranian young women face many barriers, only those with very strong personal motivations participate in physical activities