Understanding the barriers to and reasons for physical exercise among university students

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the barriers and reasons for exercise among university students. A sample of 370 students (135 males and 235 females) with a mean age of 20.2 ± 1.46 years participated in the study. They completed a biographical questionnaire as well as two
questionnaires related to barriers and reasons to exercise. Factor analysis revealed five barriers and six reasons to exercise. The most important barriers to exercise were time constraints, motivation and a lack of environmental and social support, indicating low levels of selfdetermination
in the motivation for students to exercise. The most important reasons to exercise were improving physical health, having confidence with their appearance and improving mental health. Significant gender differences were found between, racial groups and between students who exercise and those who don’t. As most South Africans do not exercise enough to experience physical and psychological health benefits, it is important to understand the exercise behaviour of students. They are in a phase of life where they are ready for change and can make those changes that will benefit them in adult life.