Cultural Dimensions and Personal Values of Physical Activity

Physical inactivity is a global health concern, contributing to various diseases and health inequities. While research has shown physical activity’s impact on health and well-being, participation rates remain low, emphasizing the need to consider cultural, social, emotional, and environmental factors. This narrative review explores how Hofstede’s Individualism-Collectivism dimension and Schwartz’s theory of values shape physical activity behaviors. A comprehensive search identified relevant studies published between 2010 and 2024, focusing on the influence of cultural and personal values on physical activity behaviors. Findings reveal the intersection of both frameworks and how they shape physical activity, with collectivistic societies preferring group-oriented activities motivated by benevolence, while individualistic societies emphasize autonomy and personal achievement. This highlights the importance of creating interventions that align with societal and individual-level motivations. In conclusion, both frameworks provide valuable insights into physical activity behavior across cultures and allow for creating customized interventions that promote physical activity participation

Autonomy · Collectivism · Health psychology · Hofstede's cultural dimensions theory · Individualism · Physical activity · Psychological intervention · Motivation and Self-Concept in Sports · Physical Activity and Health · Physical Education and Pedagogy