Eighth International Conference on Health, Wellness & Society

Abstract

Although obesity crosses demographic lines, there is a disproportionate prevalence in African American communities. Research has shown that despite the level of overweight/obesity in the African American female population, they report lower rates of exercise than White American women. African American females report lower levels of body dissatisfaction compared to their White counterparts, and a wider range of body shapes (including those with higher BMI’s) are acceptable in African American females. Coupled with these issues is the significant promotion of exercise for appearance rather than health in the United States. The purpose of this discussion is to provide an overview of data related to prevalence of disease and exercise habits in African American women; provide a research-based background, including preliminary studies, related to African American women, body ideals, and body satisfaction; discuss cultural factors that may lead to a lack of exercise motivation in African American women; and, provide suggested future research areas. The significance of this work is an understanding of cultural sensitivity as it relates to exercise promotion, of challenges faced by African American women in relation to exercise, and to provide tips on how to promote exercise for health rather than appearance in the African American community.