Physical Activity Preferences and Barriers in Adults with Diabetes

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this pilot study was to examine factors associated with physical activity behavior in adults with diabetes including current physical activity levels, preferences towards physical activity, and barriers which prevent adults with diabetes from being physically active. METHODS: Thirty-five adults with diabetes (mean age = 44 yrs) completed questionnaires assessing physical activity preferences and barriers. Participants then wore a pedometer for five days (i.e., Saturday - Wednesday) and completed a five day activity diary. RESULTS: The mean number of steps/day across the five days was 7735 (sd = 6455). Participants reported, on average, three barriers with the following cited most often: 1) cuts into time I want to use for other things, 2) lack of willpower to be active on a regular basis, and 3) no one to join me. In addition, participants identified the following factors which would make it easier to be active on a regular basis: 1) fitting physical activity into my daily routine without much hassle, 2) being supervised and provided feedback, and 3) finding someone to join me. CONCLUSION: It is concluded that this sample of adults with diabetes were somewhat active but identified, on average, three barriers which prevented them from being physically active on a regular basis. Supported by the UW-Madison Virginia Horne Henry Fund