Understanding Motivators and Barriers to Physical Activity

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to understand the factors that influence physical activity among year-round residents in an isolated summer resort community. Specifically, we explored the personal, environmental, social, and culture-specific perceived motivators and barriers to physical activity. Participants were formally interviewed about their knowledge of physical activity participation as well as observed throughout the research period. Results indicate participants' knowledge of physical activity is not as accurate as originally assumed. Most associated physical activity with sport, and therefore physical activity participation was underreported because residents did not acknowledge their work and transportation as physical activity. With regard to men and women, motivators for physical activity were different. Men indicated a need for competition as well as a sense of commitment to others. Women, on the other hand, were motivated by the social factor that goes along with being physically active with others.