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Barriers and Motivators to Physical Activity Prior to Starting a Community-Based Walking Program

Author

Listed:
  • Elizabeth A. Richards

    (School of Nursing, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA)

  • Stephanie Woodcox

    (Cooperative Extension, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA)

Abstract

Despite the clear benefits of an active lifestyle, most American adults fail to meet physical activity (PA) guidelines. Because of its safety and ease, walking is a promising population-level strategy to increase PA. There is a need to further understand why adults do and do not participate in walking. This study provides a broader understanding of barriers and motivators of walking prior to starting a walking program. Four years of baseline data from a community-based walking program were analyzed (n = 1491). Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics, barriers, reinforcements, and current PA. Chi-square tests were used to assess differences in the barrier and reinforcement responses between participant’s PA level and age categories. Open-ended responses were analyzed using thematic analysis. On average, participants were white (96%), middle-aged (52 ± 13 years old) females (92%). Poor weather and time were frequently reported barriers to walking. Open-ended responses (n = 141) identified additional barriers of lack of motivation (n = 37), joint issues (n = 29), fatigue (n = 24), safety or lack of environmental supports (n = 17), family or work demands (n = 15), and lacking a walking partner (n = 9). Good weather, health, and weight loss were frequently reported motivators. Additional motivators (n = 282) identified included stress relief and mental health (n = 82), social time (n = 70), dog care (n = 41), other health benefits (n = 38), connect with nature (n = 19), enjoyment (14), occupation (n = 11), and environmental and community supports (n = 6). Findings highlight the importance of understanding participant barriers and motivators for PA before starting a program. Future research should examine how reported barriers and motivators are related to program completion and adherence. Tailoring community-based programs to address specific barriers and motivators may enable more participants to effectively change and maintain PA.

Suggested Citation

  • Elizabeth A. Richards & Stephanie Woodcox, 2021. "Barriers and Motivators to Physical Activity Prior to Starting a Community-Based Walking Program," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(20), pages 1-11, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:20:p:10659-:d:653962
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. J. Pretty & J. Peacock & R. Hine & M. Sellens & N. South & M. Griffin, 2007. "Green exercise in the UK countryside: Effects on health and psychological well-being, and implications for policy and planning," Journal of Environmental Planning and Management, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 50(2), pages 211-231.
    2. Siobhan M. White & Thomas R. Wójcicki & Edward McAuley, 2012. "Social Cognitive Influences on Physical Activity Behavior in Middle-Aged and Older Adults," The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, The Gerontological Society of America, vol. 67(1), pages 18-26.
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    1. Antonio Castillo-Paredes & Beatriz Iglésias & Claudio Farías-Valenzuela & Irina Kovalskys & Georgina Gómez & Attilio Rigotti & Lilia Yadira Cortés & Martha Cecilia Yépez García & Rossina G. Pareja & M, 2022. "Perceived Neighborhood Safety and Active Transportation in Adults from Eight Latin American Countries," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(19), pages 1-11, October.

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