Grant: Travel Awards - Institute Community Support

Physical activity (PA) is highly associated with chronic disease and personal health. PA may be an ideal target for Indigenous health related interventions. Yet, few studies focus on the determinants of PA within Indigenous populations, and even fewer studies investigate cultural determinants. The purpose of this study is to determine the associations between sociocultural factors and PA among Indigenous adults. A community advisory committee will be formed, with currently partnering Indigenous groups, to ensure respectful practices and relevant sociocultural factors are engaged throughout the project. Interviewer administered questionnaires will be used to assess sociocultural factors and PA. Factors established for this study through input from community advisors are cultural connectedness, income, education, sedentary behaviours, social support, family influences, traditional activities, alcohol and tobacco use, gender, and sex. Analysis will then identify relationships between these sociocultural values and PA. Following data analysis, knowledge translation through group sharing activities will be used to share results with participating Indigenous communities, give participants the opportunity to share their experiences, and build on relationships in Indigenous health. The findings of our study will enhance the effectiveness of Indigenous physical activity interventions, thus decreasing risk of chronic diseases, and increasing overall health.