Perceived Barriers to Physical Activity Among University Students: A Qualitative Approach

Abstract

Background: Regular physical activity is essential for preventing chronic diseases and maintaining musculoskeletal and metabolic health; however, university students frequently develop sedentary habits due to academic demands, prolonged screen time, and limited opportunities for structured exercise. Objective: To identify and quantify barriers preventing regular exercise among university students. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 673 university students (362 females and 311 males) from four universities in Faisalabad, Pakistan, selected using simple random sampling. Eligible participants were those who did not engage in regular exercise. Data were collected using a demographic form and a validated, customized Barriers to Exercise Participation questionnaire. Ethical standards were maintained through informed consent and strict confidentiality. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive statistics and chi square tests to examine gender based associations. Results: The most prominent barriers included exhaustion after academic or work related activities (39.8 percent very likely), lack of time (28.2 percent very likely), and insufficient motivation (12.5 percent very likely). Social influences, such as inactive friends and family members (72.7 percent somewhat likely), as well as structural constraints like lack of facilities (39.8 percent very likely) and financial limitations (39.8 percent very likely), also contributed. A significant association between gender and overall perceived barriers was observed (p = 0.000). Conclusion: University students encountered multiple personal, social, and environmental barriers to regular physical activity, with clear gender specific differences. Strengthening institutional support and developing targeted health promotion strategies may improve exercise participation and support long term student wellbeing.

Keywords: Barriers, Exercise Participation, Gender Differences, Physical Activity, University Students.