Karen Lynn Webb¹, Jongwon Lee^2,

Physical activity reduces chronic disease risk, yet less attention has been given to how social and environmental conditions shape physical activity among rural Appalachian women. Existing physical activity research and measurement tools are often based on urban or suburban environments, which may not fully capture barriers in rural communities. This qualitative descriptive study explored social and environmental factors influencing physical activity behaviors among 19 rural women aged 25–34 years living in McDowell County, West Virginia. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling using community contacts and local organizations. Semi-structured interviews, guided by the Social Ecological Model, examined individual, social, and environmental influences on physical activity participation. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic content analysis. Barriers and facilitators were organized across socioecological domains. Individual-level barriers included health concerns, perceptions of physical activity, and competing work and family responsibilities. Interpersonal influences included family, spouses, and social support networks. Community-level barriers included limited availability, accessibility, and affordability of physical activity resources; geographic isolation; unsafe walking environments; and broader community safety concerns. Personal motivation, family encouragement, and supportive relationships were identified as facilitators. Findings suggest that physical activity behaviors among rural Appalachian women are shaped by intertwined individual, interpersonal, and community-level factors. Interventions that incorporate social support, improve access to safe environments, and address structural challenges within rural communities may help reduce physical inactivity and promote healthier lifestyles among rural women.

Physical activity, Young women, Rural Environment, Social Ecological Model, Chronic Disease