This coursework was completed as part of my MSc in Sport Management, Politics and International Development at Loughborough University in 2021, for which I was awarded a Distinction.

Abstract

Women’s participation in physical activity remains an under-researched area in India, particularly in relation to the social and contextual barriers experienced by women in specific communities. This research proposal examines the perceived barriers to physical activity among inactive women aged 18–64 in Kondotty, Kerala, India. It aims to identify the barriers affecting participation and explore strategies to improve women’s engagement in physical activity through the SheKondotty Sport Development Programme.

The proposed study adopts a mixed-methods approach informed by pragmatism and social constructionism, using two sequential phases. The first phase will employ an online questionnaire to examine perceived internal barriers, including lack of energy, motivation and self-confidence, and external barriers, including limited resources, social support and time. Quantitative data will be analysed using descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-tests, one-way analysis of variance and Pearson correlation. In the second phase, semi-structured interviews conducted in Malayalam will explore participants’ experiences and perceptions in greater depth. Interview data will be analysed thematically to identify patterns and develop a contextual understanding of the barriers to participation.

The proposed research seeks to generate evidence to inform the development of strategies that address women’s physical activity needs in Kondotty. Its findings and recommendations are intended to support the implementation and development of the SheKondotty Sport Development Programme and contribute to a better understanding of women’s participation in physical activity within the local community.