Drug using offenders’ beliefs and preferences about physical activity : implications for future interventions

The health benefits of regular physical activity are well established and there may be additional benefits for drug users. Given the economic, social and health costs of illegal drug use, interventions which effectively help individuals to reduce or stop their drug use are important. This qualitative study explored general understandings of physical activity by drug using offenders and perceived opportunities and barriers to achieving an active lifestyle in both the community and prison.We conducted four focus groups with 28 participants: 14 drug-using offenders and 14 prison staff. The reasons why drug users participate in physical activity in prison and the community were similar: to meet people, to look better, and to promote health. There were several barriers to participation in physical activity: lack of motivation, ill health, and body consciousness. Specific barriers in the community included expense, distance, and child-care issues. In prison, barriers included limited staffing, a lack of time, and short sentences. The findings provide important insights into drug using offenders’ beliefs and preferences regarding physical activity. Intervention strategies designed to increase participation in the general population may be appropriate for this group but issues specific to the prison environment and to gender should be considered.