Purpose

Physical activity plays a key role in health promotion and disease prevention, yet individuals with visual impairments do not generally engage in sufficient physical activity. The purpose of this study was to explore the expectancy-value beliefs, identity beliefs, and physical activity engagement among individuals with visual impairments.

Method

This investigation utilized a qualitative descriptive approach and was situated within the framework of expectancy-value theory. Eight adults (aged 21–34; five women and three men) participated in semi-structured, audio recorded interviews. Transcribed interviews and associated interview notes were thematically analyzed using a five-step process.

Results

Three interrelated themes emerged from the data: (a) “I feel better. I feel healthier”: The importance of physical activity and sport, (b) “Maybe I will make a goal, maybe I won’t”: Perceived confidence in physical activity, and (c) “I have to decide if it’s really worth it”: Barriers to participation. Interpreted through the lens of expectancy-value theory, the themes reflect the complex relationship between participants’ feelings of identity and ability, their perceived value of physical activity and sport, and the drawbacks to participation.

Conclusion

Further examination using the expectancy-value model is necessary to better understand and support the physical activity needs of this population.

• Implications for rehabilitation

• Results of the study indicated that adults with visual impairments believed that physical activity was important for health and enjoyment, but reported experiencing barriers to physical activity participation.

• Adults with visual impairments reported varying levels of confidence in their ability to be successful at physical activity and sport across different activity contexts and at different periods in their lives.

• Accessible equipment and facilities are needed to alleviate barriers to physical activity experienced by adults with visual impairments.

• Rehabilitation professionals should design appropriate, community-based programing to better include individuals with visual impairments in physical activity and exercise settings.