Date of Award
2025
Document Type
Thesis
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
Degree Name
Master of Medical and Health Science by Research
School
School of Medical and Health Sciences
First Supervisor
Caitlin Fox-Harding
Second Supervisor
Kristina Kendall
Abstract
Research has demonstrated the positive effect of exercise on mental health disorders such as anxiety disorder, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Studies have also investigated the barriers and motivators that women in particular experience when contemplating the ways in which to engage in physical activity. However, a literature gap exists regarding women who experience anxiety disorder, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, and the barriers and motivators that they specifically navigate when looking to attend group exercise classes. In this body of research for the award of Master of Medical and Health Science by Research, a scoping review was first conducted of the literature to identify additional gaps in published research. Ten studies were included, and the review concluded that the three main barriers were the financial cost of PA/group exercise classes, lack of time and the venue where physical activity was held. The three main motivators to engage in group exercise were found to be stress relief, improved health and social support. The second study conducted was an Australia-wide survey of women aged 18 years and over (n=68) which explored how anxiety disorder, depression and post-traumatic stress disorders influence both motivation and how women reach the decision that they are ready to make changes and decided to participate in group exercise classes. Kendall’s Tau-b analysis showed a small, negative correlation between anxiety disorder, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder and the willingness to attend group fitness classes, and between depression and motivation. These findings suggest that for a woman experiencing anxiety disorder, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder these conditions can negatively influence their willingness to make positive behaviour changes and attend group exercise classes. The results also suggest that for a women experiencing depression, this can negatively impact the motivation to attend group exercise classes. Further research is needed to understand how group exercise classes can be used as an adjunct or alternative treatment option to assist in mitigating the symptoms of anxiety disorders, depression and PTSD in women.
DOI
10.25958/zsb5-q223
Recommended Citation
Ford, S. (2025). Barriers and motivators to attending group exercise classes in women with anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Edith Cowan University. https://doi.org/10.25958/zsb5-q223