Opinions of pregnant women and young mothers on infant participation in water-based physical activity

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the present study was to obtain the opinions of pregnant women and young mothers of infants regarding physical activity in water and to analyze the influencing factors. Material and methods: The study included 250 pregnant women and mothers of infants. It was conducted by means of a self-administered, anonymous questionnaire containing closed or semi-open single- or multiple-choice questions. Participation in the study was voluntary and eligibility was purposive. The survey was implemented among participants of the birthing school, as well as among Internet users on forums and social networks. The collection of material for the study took place between January and April 2023. Results: The conducted research shows that people who are more willing to use swimming pools are more likely to declare willingness to participate in physical activities in the water with the child, parent’s contact with the water environment in early childhood has a positive impact on their attitude towards infant swimming, parents who swim better declare a greater willingness to take their infant to the swimming pool, mothers declaring a low level of knowledge about issues related to with children’s water activity, they are afraid to go swimming with them, but this does not affect their attitude towards their children’s physical activity in water, the popularity of swimming lessons has increased in recent years, the topic of infant swimming is more widespread in larger cities. Conclusion: A parent’s contact with the water environment in early childhood (before the age of 3) has a positive impact on the parent’s attitude towards infant swimming.

Keywords

• physical activity in water
• infant swimming
• early childhood development support