Abstract

This study investigated the association between physical activity and self-perceptions

such as body image, physical self-concept, and self-esteem among persons with an

acquired physical disability in a non-Western population. Other personal variables

such as gender and time of onset of disability were also examined. A convenience

sample of 66 Hong Kong Chinese adults with an acquired physical disability were

asked to complete a battery of questionnaires about their levels of physical activity

and self-perceptions. Over 70% of the participants were not physically active enough

to obtain health benefits. Contrary to studies focused on Western populations, the

relationships between physical activity and self-perceptions were weak. The time of

onset of disability, rather than activity level and gender, was more related to selfperceptions.

The present study provides some evidence to advance our knowledge of

self-perceptions in a non-Western population and highlights the importance of considering

culture and social location in studying physical activity levels of those with

an acquired physical disability.