Barriers to Physical Activity Cricket Participation for Women from Ethnically Diverse Backgrounds in the West Midlands

Local authority reports and health insights have highlighted that in the West Midlands there is a higher prevalence and severity of poor mental health in ethnic minority communities, and overall, a lower healthy life expectancy for women. Physical activity is widely used for promoting positive mental well-being, however, women from ethnically diverse backgrounds are statistically less likely to be sufficiently active enough to achieve any health benefits. This study aimed to identify the barriers and facilitators, and benefits, of attending cricket physical activity programmes for women from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Focus groups with women whom the Warwickshire Cricket Foundation programmes are targeted at, non-attendees (n=15; M_age=43.47±10.47; Asian/Asian British [n = 13: Pakistani {n=7}, Indian {n=2}, Chinese {n=2}, Bangladeshi {n=1}, Kurdish {n=1}], Arab [n=1], and Black/African/Caribbean/Black British: African [n=1]) and attendees (n=4; Mage=45±10.54; Asian/Asian British [n=13: Pakistani {n=1}, Indian {n=2}, and Arab [n=1]), and with programme coaches (n=6) were conducted. Photo-elicitation techniques prompted in-depth discussions and detailed experiences. Data was thematically analysed using Theoretical Domains Framework to identify a range of behavioural determinants related to one’s capability, opportunity and motivational factors influencing participation. Findings revealed social support could encourage attendance, while competing responsibilities, perceived gendered norms, limited knowledge about sessions/location, and mixed experiences attending with children contributed to women’s participation and sustained engagement in cricket sessions. This study will inform the development of a coaching toolkit for future physical activity programmes for women from ethnically diverse backgrounds, enhancing coaches’ ability to promote long-term adherence for health benefits in this population.