The Association Between Body Image Perception and Participation in Physical Activity Among Female-Identifying and Gender Non-conforming Queer Individuals

Exercise participation is lower among the Queer population when compared to straight individuals, with previous research finding body image and LGBTQ+ specific barriers impacting their exercise habits. The present mixed-methods study aimed to examine the link between body image and exercise habits among queer female-identifying and gender non-conforming individuals who were assigned female at birth (AFAB; N = 112). Three key hypotheses were examined: 1) there would be a positive correlation between negative body image perception and low physical activity rates, 2.) there would be a positive correlation between participants who participate in physical activity and higher rates of positive body image perceptions, and 3) that there would be a negative correlation between perceived barriers and physical activity rates. In the first phase of the study, quantitative data were collected via an online survey with participants from both Prolific and a snowball sample to identify significant predictors of weekly exercise and barriers to exercise. Multiple regression analysis revealed the model of Body Mass Index (BMI), Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2), and The Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire: Appearance Scales (MBSRQ-AS) was a statistically significant predictor of exercise benefits and barriers (p = .04, R2 = .12). Additionally, perceived exercise benefits and barriers were statistically significant predictors of weekly exercise among participants (𝛽 = .33, p = .02). Qualitative responses were then used to further explore the relationship between how individuals' perception of their bodies and past social experiences shape their participation in and belonging within exercise environments among participants (N=111). Thematic analysis identified key barriers including gender dysphoria, chronic conditions, lack of representation and accessibility, intersecting identities, and social physique anxiety. These identified barriers were associated with isolated and self-directed exercise among a majority of participants. A select group of participants participated in physical activity to directly control their appearances to maintain a body they felt best aligned with their gender identity. Findings emphasize the need for inclusive, accessible fitness areas and increased representation of diverse body types to improve exercise participation in public settings.