Background: MBTs include relaxation and somatic techniques that may have positive cardiovascular effects. Approximately 35.1% (Leung et al, under review) of cardiac patients practice MBT, particularly women (32.5%; Leung et al, under review). Considering they are less likely to engage in conventional physical activity, few studies have examined why MBT is well-accepted by women.
Objectives: To qualitatively explore gender differences in the motivations for, and perceived effects of MBT, and the interrelationships among alternative and conventional physical activities and secondary prevention programs.
Methods: A random subsample of participants who reported practicing MBT in a larger multisite study of 661 cardiac patients were telephone-interviewed until saturation was achieved (N = 16, 8 female). Audiotapes were transcribed and coded based on Grounded Theory within NVIVO 7 software. Grounded Theory involves categorizing a textual database into related concepts, constantly comparing these concepts to discover themes and their interrelationships, and theorizing to provide the conceptual structure for understanding the phenomenon. An audit trail and second coder were utilized to ensure the transparency and validity of results. After main themes emerged, the data were divided by gender to identify differences for each theme.
Results: Five themes emerged: (1) increases in positive mood, (2) other psychological and physiological health benefits, (3) MBT as a preferred complementary and(or alternative physical activity, (4) increased participation in traditional exercise, and (5) tool for active coping and self-management. MBT was perceived as an exercise alternative to help increase positive mood and exercise level, ultimately serving as a tool for active coping and self-management. Men more often expressed preference for MBT for increased positive mood and cardiac-specific benefits, whereas women emphasized stress reduction, increasing self-efficacy, and physical activity, and wanted to see MBT offered in cardiac rehabilitation (CR).
Conclusions: Both male and female users perceived substantial psychosocial and physiological benefits of MBT practice. Because MBT addresses some of women's common barriers to CR including joint pain, fatigue, and affective distress, incorporating MBT as a complementary physical activity may increase their CR participation.