Exercise Preferences among Men Survivors of Sexual Violence by PTSD and Physical Activity Level: Recommendations for Trauma Informed Practice

Abstract

This analysis reported interest in exercise programs made for men survivors of sexual violence (SV), preferences for the structure and content of these programs, and comparisons by physical activity level and PTSD status. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 198 men aged 18–65, with a history of SV, in the USA. Most respondents indicated interest in exercise programs for them. Men with PTSD were most interested. Men favored exercising at-home, alone, with a male instructor, 3–4 times per week, at moderate intensity, for 30 mins-1 h. No differences in preferences were found by activity status. Differences by PTSD status were found in location, social environment, instructor gender, intensity, duration, and program length. Top modes were walking, jogging, and biking. Results add new knowledge relevant for integrating exercise into trauma recovery programs.