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Table 4 Line of argument synthesis

From: Understanding the complex interplay of barriers to physical activity amongst black and minority ethnic groups in the United Kingdom: a qualitative synthesis using meta-ethnography

Levels; synthetic headings

Third order constructs (themes)

Third order interpretations (Reviewers’ interpretations)

Individual

First generation migrants versus later generation migrants

The degree of socio-cultural barriers to physical activity exhibited by first generation is greater than in the later generations.

First generation migrants exhibit weaker interpersonal relationships that result in poor social network and differential style in negotiating the health system and facilities for physical activities.

Community

Unfamiliar environments versus familiar environments

There is greater attention and emphasis placed on carrying out physical activity in gymnasium than in familiar places like school, work, and religious centres.

Barriers similar to general population versus barriers specific to BME groups

The majority of barriers emerging from physical environments are similar to those identified in general population. E.g. distance, finance, bad weather.

Organisational

Lack of inclusive services and research for all people as influenced by organisational structure and practices.

Most organisations and policy-makers do not consider potential risk of ‘institutional racism’ in their practices, this limit participation of BME groups e.g. non-inclusive single-sex facilities, lack of specific information to help BME groups, and lack of training of staff.

There are existing culturally competent facilities but poor marketing of existing services affects awareness of services that are culturally competent. Service providers not recognising that they may need to offer different services or use different settings to promote physical activity (e.g. in the community, workplace or religious settings)

A limitation of current research in recognising cultural activities that are physical activities might have led to health promoters not being adequately informed on how to address barriers among BME groups.