Pragya Kandel

Mrs. Pragya Kandel

orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

6Years (2021-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

View All Publications
22 March 2021 in Obesity Reviews
Verified
Journal Article
Closed access
PDF file
PKPragya Kandel
Pragya Kandel
SLSiew Lim
Siew Lim
SPStephanie Pirotta
Stephanie Pirotta
HSHelen Skouteris
Helen Skouteris
LMLisa Moran
Lisa Moran
Briony HillBriony Hill
Briony Hill

28 November 2023 in Nutrients
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
PKPragya Kandel
Pragya Kandel
SLSiew Lim
Siew Lim
MDMichelle Dever
Michelle Dever
PLPrabhat Lamichhane
Prabhat Lamichhane
HSHelen Skouteris
Helen Skouteris
Briony HillBriony Hill
Briony Hill
Engaging in regular preconception physical activity (PA) is associated with benefits, including improved cardiovascular health and mental well-being. However, most women do not meet PA recommendations in the preconception period. This study aimed to investigate enablers and barriers related to PA in preconception women using a sequential mixed method design. An online survey was followed by Zoom interviews with women of reproductive age (aged 18–45 years). A weaving approach and the Capability Opportunity Motivation Behaviour (COM-B) model were used to integrate and present the data. Seven hundred and eighty-eight non-pregnant women from Australia, India, and the US completed the quantitative survey, and 13 Australian-based women participated in a qualitative interview. Physical activity levels were associated with having social support, a desire to improve body image, and becoming a healthier person. Women encountered barriers such as misconceptions about PA, competing priorities, financial constraints, and a lack of accessibility. Enablers for participation in PA included knowledge of its importance, a desire to be healthier, weight loss, social support, and having goals. The multifaceted and intricate nature of enablers and barriers for preconception PA lays the groundwork for developing tailored interventions and policies aimed at promoting preconception PA among women.