Breaking Barriers, Building Biceps: Examining the Feasibility of a Culturally-Tailored Strength Training Program for South Asian Women and its Preliminary Effects on Positive Body Image

Abstract

South Asian women have been underrepresented in body image literature. Research has shown that South Asian women in Western countries have poorer body image compared to women of other ethnicities (e.g., White, Black, Hispanic). South Asian beauty appearance ideals (e.g., “fair” or pale skin, slim figure), racial teasing during childhood, the enforcement of thin ideals by older South Asian women, and the negative impact of White-centric media contribute to poor body image in South Asian women. Physical activity can improve body image. However, South Asian women have lower levels of physical activity compared to other ethnicities potentially due to several sociocultural factors including stigma against women participating in physical activity. Strength training specifically is associated with improved body image but is not a popular form of exercise for women as it is also connected with masculinity in many cultures, including South Asian culture. The primary objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of a culturally-tailored strength training program for young South Asian women. The secondary objective was to examine preliminary changes in positive body image measures following the program. Of the 22 women who contacted the researchers to express interest in the study, seven women attended a 6-week strength training program and completed measures of positive body image pre- and postprogram. Given the low recruitment rates and poor adherence, it is not feasible to run the study in its present form. However, the exercise program itself was perceived as acceptable by those who did attend and adhere. Regarding preliminary efficacy, there were increases in body appreciation and embodiment, with medium and small effect sizes post-program, respectively. There is a need for further feasibility assessment of the program with an adequate sample size, which may be achieved through a recruitment period that conforms with student schedules, more targeted recruitment strategies (e.g., recruiting at South Asian events), and building relationships with South Asian organizations. Researchers should continue exploring culturally-tailored programs for promoting various forms of exercise, including strength training, and examining how they affect positive body image in South Asian women. Keywords: Feasibility, acceptability, South Asian, women, strength training, body appreciation, cultural-tailoring, exercise.