ABSTRACT
Within the field of physical activity and health qualitative research is both growing and increasingly recognized for what it can offer. Painting with board strokes, this chapter offers an introduction to qualitative research. The chapter first highlights the aims of qualitative research. It also notes the philosophical assumptions that can underpin this kind of research. Various qualitative approaches are then highlighted. Next different methods of data collection and analysis are attended to. We close with responses to how researchers might judge the quality of qualitative research in the field of physical activity and health. We hope the chapter is an invitation to both engage in dialogues about qualitative methods and, when appropriate, do high quality qualitative research.
