Barriers of Being Active: Differences Between Two Generations

Purpose It is well known that regular exercise reduces the risk of fatal and non-fatal disease. Physical activity is also one of the seven metrics included in the definition of Ideal Cardiovascular Health. Physical inactivity and sedentary behaviors are the other side of the same coin and are nowadays included among principal risk factors for coronary artery disease, cardiovascular events and mortality. In order to promoting physical activity, it is important to have a thorough understanding of physical activity barriers and facilitators. The study aimed to investigate the principal perceived barriers to exercise in young and adult populations. Methods This is a cross-sectional study conducted during 2017-2018 in two settings: a high school (70 students, 19.1±0.4 years old) and the Rectorate of University of Florence (106 adults, 48.4 ±12.2 years old). The participants underwent a questionnaire that consisted of three parts: demographic data and physiological anamnesis; Barriers to Being Active Quiz (BBAQ) and Mediterranean Diet Score assessment. Weight, waist and hip circumferences and blood pressure values were measured according to standardize protocols. Results Prevalence of overweight (BMI>25 kg/m2) was 17% and 42% among woman of men working in University, being 4% among both female and male students. Mean adherence score of Mediterranean diet was 34±3 among adults and 32± 5 among students without sex differences in both groups. Sedentary habits were present in the 35% of adults and 24% of all students enrolled. Lack of time for exercise was the most frequently reported barrier for adults followed by lack of energy and laziness. These barriers were well represented in young population too, especially in girls with a barrier score ≥5 higher compared to boys (p<0.0019). Surprisingly, fear for injuries was represented only in adult and young male. Conclusions Exercise professionals should be aware of the barriers that patients can face during exercise prescription and be able to contrast them with useful individual strategies. Furthermore, analysis of young people life-style habits can help finding social strategies to promote healthy behaviors. Prevention polices to promote physical activity should focus on young girls as a specific target for prevention.