Women’s experiences of intuitive exercise: A reflexive thematic analysis

Abstract

This study sought to deepen understandings of intuitive exercise among women navigating physical activity contexts that reinforce societal gendered messages and norms about bodies and exercise, promote dysfunctional exercise attitudes and behaviours, and undermine sustained participation. Participants were 16 predominantly White adult women whoidentified as intuitive exercisers. Individual semi-structured interviews were used to collect the data, which were analysed and interpreted using reflexive thematic analysis. Five themes were generated to describe the cognitive, emotional, and behavioural experiences of women’s intuitive exercise: (1) attuning to sensations and honouring the body in the moment, (2) bringing an inquisitive and curious mindset to experiences of exercise-related distress, (3) countering deeply entrenched fitness culture norms requires persistent action, (4) protecting themselves from future harm, and (5) intuitive exercise as a recursive practice of cultural unlearning. These findings highlight a more nuanced approach to exercise that is intentional, non-judgemental, and flexible to alleviate physical activity distress and foster more enjoyable physical activity experiences. The results from this study can be used to inform strategies aimed at facilitating sustainable physical activity experiences among women.