Social Representations of Physical Activity on Primary Health Care

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the user´s social representations about the corporal practices/ physical activities in primary health care. Methods: Qualitative descriptive study conducted in the city of Sobral, Ceará, Brazil. Practitioners users and non-practitioners of physical activities promoted by the Support Center for Family Health were interviewed. The interview covered topics about bodily and professional practices responsible for these activities. The interviews were analyzed using content analysis technique. Results: Regarding to the importance and impact of physical activity on health, the categories that emerged were: practitioners users - psychosocial and physical benefits; nonpractitioners users - treatment of bone diseases and body weight reduction. Another category was found about the motivation to participate or not of the activities, practitioners have stated that participated in activities seeking to improve health and by the encouragement of physical education professional. Non practitioners felt unmotivated by fear of violence and for not knowing about the existence of activities. The professional and the activities carried out by him were praised by practitioners. However, it was still prevalent in the speeches lack the recommendation of activities by other health professionals. Conclusion: Although the lack of materials and physical space for the practices, the partnership professional-community made the Nucleous of Family Health Support has relevance in the municipality of Sobral-CE. It is suggested a greater investment in human and structural sources, in addition to a bigger disclosure of these activities to the community and others health professionals.