Overcoming Hurdles: Exploring Obstacles to Physical Activity Among University Students in Southeast

Background: Physical inactivity is modifiable risk factors for an unhealthy lifestyle in university students. However, university students tend to spend more time on studying rather than participating in physical activities. This study aimed to investigating barriers to physical activity in student of Sirjan at University of Medical Sciences in ۲۰۲۲. Methods: This is a descriptive-analytical study that encompassed the research community, consisting of all students from the School of Medicine in Iran, totaling ۶۳۴ individuals. The research sample was estimated based on previous studies. Data collection utilized a demographic information form and the Physical Activity Barriers Questionnaire, which included ۱۲ items in two sub-scales (internal barriers and external barriers). Result: The results of the perceived barriers to the physical activity were presented using descriptive statistics and regression model. The significance level was set at ۰.۰۵. Conclusions: The results indicated that the average perception of external barriers is higher compared to internal barriers. The highest mean score was assigned to the barrier of parents prioritizing academic success, and the second-highest mean score was allocated to the barrier of lacking leisure time due to excessive academic workload. Additionally, the lowest mean score was related to the barrier of the absence of a fitness center for exercise, and the second-lowest mean score was assigned to the barrier of not contemplating the positive effects of exercise on health. Promoting a more physically active lifestyle among students, fostering their overall well-being.

کلیدواژه ها:

Cross-sectional study ، Barriers ، Obstacles ، Exercise ، Adolescent