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“I Prefer High-Intensity Exercise”—A Qualitative Study of Men’s Experiences with a Nature-Based Exercise Program for People with Arthritis

Author

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  • Signe Andersson

    (The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark
    Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark)

  • Jonas Risum Ahler

    (The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark
    Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark)

  • Lars Hermann Tang

    (The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark
    Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark)

  • Thomas Vedste Aagaard

    (The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark
    Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark)

  • Søren T. Skou

    (The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark
    Center for Muscle and Joint Health, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark)

  • Charlotte Simonÿ

    (The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Region Zealand, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark
    Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark)

Abstract

Arthritis significantly reduces health-related quality of life, causing pain, fatigue, and decreased physical activity. To address this, exercise is highly recommended. However, men are less likely to participate in rehabilitation compared to women. We detected the same tendency in a nationwide nature-based exercise program in Denmark, with only 8% male participants. Therefore, this qualitative study investigated what engaged and restrained men with arthritis from participating in a nature-based exercise program. We employed interviews as the primary method for data collection. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis, revealing key patterns in participants’ experiences. This study finds that the fourteen participants’ experiences revealed two themes: (1) meeting with the nature-based exercise program was confusing, motivating, and disappointing, and (2) the social aspect is less important. To better engage men, future programs should include a clear description of the concept of the exercise, high-intensity exercise, a reduced emphasis on social activities, and consistency in the instructors’ roles and guidance. Incorporating these findings can better address the needs and preferences of men, helping them feel more like individuals than patients.

Suggested Citation

  • Signe Andersson & Jonas Risum Ahler & Lars Hermann Tang & Thomas Vedste Aagaard & Søren T. Skou & Charlotte Simonÿ, 2024. "“I Prefer High-Intensity Exercise”—A Qualitative Study of Men’s Experiences with a Nature-Based Exercise Program for People with Arthritis," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 21(12), pages 1-16, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:21:y:2024:i:12:p:1606-:d:1534141
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Eleanor M. Taylor & Noelle Robertson & Courtney J. Lightfoot & Alice C. Smith & Ceri R. Jones, 2022. "Nature-Based Interventions for Psychological Wellbeing in Long-Term Conditions: A Systematic Review," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(6), pages 1-23, March.
    2. Lucy E. Keniger & Kevin J. Gaston & Katherine N. Irvine & Richard A. Fuller, 2013. "What are the Benefits of Interacting with Nature?," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 10(3), pages 1-23, March.
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