Degree Name
MA (Master of Arts)
Program
Psychology
Date of Award
8-2025
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Julia C. Dodd
Committee Members
Stacey L. Williams, Meredith K. Ginley
Abstract
Gender and sexual minority (GSM) populations experience significant mental and physical health disparities compared to their cisgender, heterosexual counterparts. A particularly understudied modality that may contribute to these disproportionate health outcomes is decreased engagement in physical activity (PA). Gyms are a primary source for PA, yet understanding GSM experiences in these spaces is relatively understudied. The purpose of the present study is to better understand the experiences of GSMs in gym spaces with an emphasis on barriers and facilitators to their engagement. We conducted semi-structured phone interviews among self-identified gender and sexual minorities across the U.S. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes among participant responses. A total of four themes were identified: Gym Operations/Management, Gym Environment, Sociopolitical Factors, and Motivators. Results provide insight into the nuances of GSM experiences in PA environments and are crucial to decreasing barriers to more positive health behaviors that bolster mental and physical health.
Document Type
Thesis - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Schott, Rachel M., "The Diversity of Our Weightlifting Uniforms: A Qualitative Analysis of the Experiences of Gender and Sexual Minorities in Gyms" (2025). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 4560. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/4560
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.
