THE ROLE OF GROUP EXERCISE INTERVENTIONS ON WELL-BEING AMONG WOMEN: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Abstract Background: Group exercise enables people to practise activities in a group. Evidence shows that group exercise produces multiple benefits for women’s well-being and quality of life. For example, it stimulates positive mood, mental alertness, and energy in addition to mitigating the negative effects of underlying conditions such as anxiety, stress, and depression. The effectiveness of group exercise, however, depends on various personal, behavioural, environmental, and self-consciousness factors. Hence, it is important to closely examine the literature for evidence about this topic. Research Aim: This research critically examines the effect of group exercise on the well-being of women with underlying conditions. Methods: A systematic review methodology approach was adopted. After considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were used to gather articles. The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) flow diagram was utilised to identify, screen, and determine the eligibility of studies. After refining the collected data through each stage of PRISMA, 13 peer-reviewed articles were selected for critical appraisal. Results: The critical appraisal skills programme (CASP) was used to critically appraise each of the included studies. Generally, the results concluded that group exercise is an effective approach that significantly improves quality of life and overall well-being among women living with underlying conditions. In terms of physical well-being, it was found that group exercise helps women to improve BMI, strength, mobility, and endurance. In terms of the psychological aspects of well-being, group exercise improved women’s depression symptoms such as sadness and hopelessness. Among the social benefits are better self-image and eager engagement in pro-social behaviour. Conclusion: Group exercise plays a crucial role in ensuring women’s well-being and thereby improving quality of life. There is a need to consider group exercise as an alternative treatment for mild depression symptoms, physical inactivity, and first-line or preventive treatment for women who are overweight and obese.