Exploring the Extrinsic Motivators and Strategies That Drive Immigrants, Newcomers, and Refugees in Western Countries to Engage and Sustain Participation in Physical Activity and Healthy Active Living: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Research shows that immigrants and refugees are at a higher risk for physical inactivity; however, there is no comprehensive synthesis that investigates the extrinsic motivators that can drive immigrants, newcomers and refugees that come from different backgrounds, and live in Western countries to engage and sustain their participation in physical activities. This scoping review investigates the extrinsic motivators that influence and facilitate the participation of immigrants, newcomers and refugees in Western countries to engage in physical activity and sustain a healthy active lifestyle. The methodology used for conducting this scoping review is based on the Arksey & O’ Mally (2005) framework. The results show that challenges such as time constraints, high costs, safety, and cultural expectations are closely linked and can discourage participation. However, with the right community programs, interventions and supportive policies, these challenges and barriers can be transformed into motivators to encourage regular physical activity among this population. Overall, the study highlights the importance of focusing on community needs and culturally sensitive approaches rather than on individual choices to help immigrants, newcomers and refugees stay active and healthy.