“Don't ask me to be joyful!” – a qualitative study of the weight-neutral principle ‘joyful movement’

The core principle Joyful Movement in Weight-Neutral Health (WNH) aims to enhance access to and engagement with physical activity (PA), however the application remains underexplored. To investigate experiences and enactments of Joyful Movement among individuals of size with WNH experience and health professionals with knowledge about WNH. Qualitative study conducted in Denmark during the development of a WNH intervention. Data include field notes, interviews, seminars and workshops with 16 participants of size (POS) and 15 participating health professionals (PHP). Abductive analysis using the theoretical concept of ontonorms unfolds health norms related to Joyful Movement. Two main themes were identified: (1) PA as a requirement to lose weight : POS and PHP identified PA as a moral obligation primarily aimed at weight loss reinforced by social and professional influences, (2) Bodily autonomy as an act of emancipation: WNH broadened POS perceptions of PA to include rest, self-compassion, autonomy and empowerment. Neutral language was emphasized as important to separate movement from normative expectations and agendas related to PA. Cultural norms about body weight and PA can create barriers to movement. WNH can broaden perceptions of PA through embracing rest as part of movement and contribute to bodily autonomy. Interventions introducing PA targeted individuals of size should address structural barriers and potential internalized weight stigma, which stem from living in bodies that do not conform to predominant cultural norms of ableness, health and beauty. This includes applying neutral language and avoiding normative terms such as joyful. • Cultural norms on body weight and physical activity can create barriers to movement. • Weight-Neutral Health can broaden perceptions of physical activity. • Physical activity should include rest and self-compassion. • Structural barriers and internalized weight stigma should be considered. • Applying neutral language and avoiding normative terms such as joyful is crucial.