Barriers to physical activity in obese adults: A rapid evidence assessment

Abstract

Rising rates of obesity are becoming a major problem in the Western world, with multiple implications for individuals' health and also health service resources. Physical activity can positively influence weight loss and weight loss maintenance; however, levels are low among obese individuals. The aim of this study was to identify the barriers faced by obese individuals which prevent them from engaging with physical activity. A rapid evidence assessment was undertaken based on the framework provided by Bettany-Saltikov. Studies were identified from an electronic database search using key words, reference list search and manual searching of current journal issues. Identified studies were screened for relevance, appraised for quality and relevant data were extracted in order to identify themes for five qualitative and one mixed methods. Several barriers were identified relating to three main themes: physical, psychological and external barriers. Due to the variety of barriers faced by obese individuals it is important to treat each person as an individual and identify the barriers perceived by them, in order to provide targeted support to overcome these barriers.

Perceived barriers to physical activity during and after a behavioural weight loss programme

“…research, which has largely been cross-sectional and conducted in community samples (ie, not specifically in the context of weight management interventions), has identified several common barriers to engaging in PA among adults with overweight or obesity. These include lack of time 14,15 ; physical barriers such as physical discomfort, poor fitness, or the possibility of injury [14][15][16] ; psychological barriers such as low confidence, higher depressive symptoms, lack of motivation, and embarrassment 14 ; and environmental barriers, such as limited access to public space, safety concerns, or financial constraints. 16 While these studies provide important insights into common types of barriers experienced by adults with higher body weights, individuals entering a BWL programme may have distinct experiences with PA, including with regard to barriers.…”

“…A substantial amount of research has examined barriers to PA in the general population of adults with overweight or obesity . This research, which has largely been cross‐sectional and conducted in community samples (ie, not specifically in the context of weight management interventions), has identified several common barriers to engaging in PA among adults with overweight or obesity.…”

“…A substantial amount of research has examined barriers to PA in the general population of adults with overweight or obesity. 14…”

An innovative team-based weightloss competition to reduce cardiovascular and diabetes risk among Māori and Pacific people: rationale and method for the study and its evaluation

“…These are not modifiable as such, although age and metabolism changes over time. Illness and injury are recognised barriers to physical activity that may not be modifiable without specialised intervention [29].…”

Stimulating Weight Stigma in Future Experimental Designs on Physical Activity - Development and Pilot Validation of a Video Instrument

“…However, many individuals with obesity are not able to meet official activity recommendation guidelines [4,5], and public health experts have sought to understand the complex reasons for this. Against this background, sociological and psychological research has been trying to identify the psychosocial determinants and barriers which prevent people with obesity from a more physically active lifestyle [6]. …”