Influence of Cultural Factors on Gender Participation in Physical Activity among Colleges of Education Students in the Ashanti Region of Ghana

Abstract

This study examined the impact of cultural factors on the participation of women and men in physical activity among first-year students at colleges of education in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used, involving 1,680 participants selected by stratified random sampling from seven public colleges of education. Data collection was facilitated by a validated questionnaire, which included demographic information and items on cultural perceptions and physical activity participation. The analysis used descriptive statistics, independent t-tests and multiple regression techniques. The results showed a significant gender gap in the level of physical activity, with male students showing a higher rate of participation than female students (p<.01). In addition, cultural beliefs, gender role expectations and traditional norms were important predictors of the participation of female students in PE (R² = .42, p<.001). These findings emphasise how important it is for culturally sensitive interventions to promote equal participation in physical activity in educational institutions. Based on the results, recommendations include revising curricula, launching awareness campaigns and implementing targeted programmes to address cultural barriers.