Perceptions of ‘physical activity’ and ‘exercise’ among people living with HIV: A qualitative study

Background/Aims: Many people living with HIV do not engage in regular physical activity and it is unclear how perceptions of physical activity and exercise influence participation. Our aim was to explore individual perceptions of physical activity and exercise in people living with HIV. Methods: We conducted a descriptive qualitative study using face-to-face semi-structured interviews. We recruited adults who self-identified as living with HIV from a speciality hospital in Toronto, Canada. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: A total of 14 participants with a median age of 50 years participated in the study. Four themes (and subsequent sub-themes) emerged relating to physical activity and exercise. These included: (1) perceptions of physical activity and exercise (seeing them as a continuum of activity, as a health-promoting behaviour, and that they ‘should’ be a greater priority); (2) benefits (restores physical function, improves mental health, and prevents isolation); (3) risks (physical injury, pain, and fear of ‘overdoing it’); and (4) recommendations for engagement (education, graded activity, and an individualised approach). Conclusions: Findings suggest health care professionals should consider exploring perceptions of physical activity and exercise among people living with HIV to ensure physical activity interventions are individualised to meet their diverse health and wellbeing needs.