Physical activity and sport participation among immigrants in Chile

Abstract

Aim: characterize habits and practices of physical activity (AF) and sports among the immigrant population in Chile, and identify how they impact on their social integration and on the sport development of the country. Methods: exploratory study, which included semi-structured interviews to 30 academics, athletes, technicians and representatives of public and social organizations; and a household survey to migrants in 6 cities of Chile. Results: 43.5% of adult migrants practice regular PA in Chile. The most frequent modalities are soccer, active transport and physical conditioning. Migrants mainly practice with friends and family, usually in public spaces such as parks. Although the majority maintains the PA habits of their countries of origin, 28.7% became inactive. Discussion: migrants practice more regular PA than Chileans, with fewer differences by socioeconomic level and age. However, migrating to Chile can negatively affect their PA habits, due to Chilean cities characteristics, specially the capital’s, such as extensive working hours, long travel intervals, lack of public spaces and parks, and insecurity in vulnerable neighborhoods. Conclusion: the regular practice of PA and sports among migrants allows them to generate support networks and increase their visibility, which has a positive effect on their life quality and integration. However, their living conditions in Chile have a negative impact on their PA habits. Policies that promote their integration through sport and PA are necessary.