A healthier way to meet people: the experiences of LGBT people exercising with a peer group.

Background: Lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) individuals have been shown to have poorer health when compared to those who identified as heterosexual. Additionally, they encounter barriers that deter participation in sports. Aim: To understand the experiences of LGBT individuals who participate in physical activity with peers. Method: An exploratory-descriptive qualitative (EDQ) study with data collected via face-to-face interviews from 12 participants. Data were thematically analysed to identify findings. Findings: exercising with peers represents a healthier way to meet people. Participants experienced improved physical, mental and social health. Conclusion: Engaging with a peer group for physical activity can have a transformational effect on members of the LGBT community, impacting on all aspects of their wellbeing. Nurses, and other health professionals, should be aware of the multifaceted benefits that exercising with a peer group can have, using their regular interactions with this patient group to recommend peer-supported exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]