‘I'm a failure again, I can't do it’: Attitudes towards, and experiences of, exercise participation in adults with class III obesity

Abstract

ObjectivesLiving within a larger body brings unique challenges to exercise participation, which are poorly understood. This qualitative study explored the attitudes towards, and experiences of, exercise participation in adults with class III obesity.DesignIndividual semi‐structured qualitative interviews.MethodsWe recruited 30 adults with class III obesity (body mass index: 45.8 ± 8.6 kg/m2) from a specialist multidisciplinary weight management service. Participants took part in semi‐structured interviews while participating in a 6‐month home‐based aerobic and resistance exercise intervention. Open‐ended questions were used flexibly to explore their views and experiences of exercise, encompassing barriers, motives and perceived benefits. Transcripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.ResultsThree themes were developed: (1) a web of barriers; (2) tailored exercise facilitates positive experiences; and (3) a desire to live a normal life. People with class III obesity perceived that they were unable to do exercise; a view that was attributed to perceived judgement, low physical function, pain during everyday activities and failed weight loss attempts. These complex physical and psychosocial barriers to exercise were described as contributing to exercise avoidance. High value was placed on tailored exercise that accommodates the unique needs of moving in a larger body. A desire to carry out everyday tasks underpinned motivations for exercise.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that multi‐component obesity interventions should move away from generic exercise prescriptions designed to maximize energy expenditure, and instead move towards addressing the unique physical and psychosocial needs of people who have class III obesity with tailored person‐centred and weight‐neutral exercise prescriptions.