Socio-ecological analysis of trans people’s participation in physical activity and sport

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore and provide understanding of trans people’s participation in physical activity and sport through the socio-ecological perspective. A total of 43 Spanish trans people (21 trans women, 17 trans men and 5 with ‘other self-identifications’), between 15 and 62 years old, participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis identified six main themes, which highlight the multidimensional relations between individual, social and environmental factors in trans people’s participation in physical activity and sport. Results reveal that the importance of body appearance for ‘passing’ and the fear of being unmasked affect their participation. Trans people also rely on physical activity and sport to accelerate or avoid the side effects of hormone treatment. Social support from family and close friends and health professionals are essential for engaging in physical activity and sport. Experiences in physical education also influence trans people’s attitudes towards physical activity and sport. Finally, spaces (e.g. swimming pools and changing rooms), legal requirements and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transsexual teams and leagues are also identified as key socio-ecologic themes. These findings are relevant for health and physical activity professionals, educators, sports organizations and policymakers in facilitating trans people’s participation in physical activity and sport and improving promotion strategies.

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