Work

Co‐Designing Physical Activity Programmes: A Participatory Research Study With Culturally Diverse Women and Local Government

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Physical activity (PA) is essential for health and wellbeing, yet participation among women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds remains low due to complex, multi-level barriers. Co-design is increasingly recognised as a means of developing culturally relevant and sustainable interventions, but its application within local government-led PA programmes is limited. METHODS: Guided by the socioecological model (SEM), this study examined how co-design can be operationalised within a local government context to plan and deliver PA opportunities, alongside an exploratory analysis of short-term outcomes. A mixed-method participatory design was conducted across four phases: planning, co-creation, implementation and evaluation. SEM informed identification of barriers and enablers during workshops, while co-design principles guided collaborative strategy development. Data collection included co-design workshops (n = 76 women), pre- and post-intervention surveys (baseline n = 42; follow-up n = 21), a staff focus group and interviews with women (n = 3). Quantitative data were analysed using paired t-tests; qualitative data were thematically analysed to examine co-design processes and participant experiences. RESULTS: Co-design resulted in the development and implementation of culturally relevant programmes including group-based exercise, women's football, netball and water safety, incorporating features such as childcare, safety and opportunities for social connection. Quantitative findings indicated modest increases in PA (+34 min/week, p = 0.25), and improved physical health (p = 0.02). Qualitative findings highlighted outcomes associated with enhanced social connections and sense of empowerment, and the importance of iterative programme adaptation. CONCLUSION: Integrating SEM and co-design offers a robust framework for addressing multi-level barriers and supporting inclusive PA programmes within local government practice and strengthening community capacity and equity in health. SO WHAT?: These findings provide actionable evidence for local governments seeking to implement inclusive, culturally responsive PA initiatives, positioning co-design as a scalable approach to addressing participation inequities among women from CALD backgrounds.

Source: Health Promotion Journal of Australia

DOI: 10.1002/hpja.70217

Authors: M. Casey, J. E. Porter, R. Eime

Institution: Federation University

Language: English

Topic: Physical Activity and Health

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities, Gender equality, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,150