Physical activity experiences and preferences in remote and rural First Nations communities in Northern British Columbia

RATIONALE: First Nations communities prioritize physical activity, sport and land-based activities for many reasons, including improved health and wellness and cultural significance. There have been calls to enhance physical activity programs, particularly in remote and rural areas where activity programs and pulmonary rehabilitation are limited.OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to identify the values, barriers and facilitators of physical activity in rural and remote First Nations communities in northern British Columbia (BC) to guide culturally appropriate and sustainable programming, including pulmonary rehabilitation programming. This study was a collaboration between the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Carrier Sekani Family Services (CSFS), a First Nations-led healthcare organization in this area.METHODS: A survey on physical activity was completed by members aged 12+ from various First Nations communities in north-central BC. Questions covered demographics, current activity levels, values, barriers and programming preferences.MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: A total 216 survey responses were obtained. Respondents had a median age of 42 years (range 12–89 years). Half of the participants were active at least 10 min per day, 5 days per week. Walking (49%) was the most enjoyable activity. Common symptoms included fatigue (40%), difficulty breathing (31%), a lack of infrastructure (21%) and equipment (20%). However, 82% of participants viewed physical activity as important and were interested in attending an educational event to learn about physical activity relevant to First Nations cultures.CONCLUSION: Respondents are interested in culturally appropriate programming but identified barriers that need to be addressed by CSFS to tailor programming for their member communities.