Predictive variables of motivation and barriers for the practice of physical exercise in adolescence

Abstract

Within the framework of health, it is rightly considered that physical exercise reduces risk factors and contributes significantly to quality of life. So, the goal of this study was to find the predictive capacity of the different variables influencing motivations and barriers for the practice of physical exercise in adolescents. The sample was 852 students of Compulsory Secondary Education and Baccalaureate of the Autonomous Community of Galicia (Spain) ages 12 to 17 (Average = 14.9, DT = 1.75). An ad hoc questionnaire (sociodemographic variables), the Self-report of Motives for the Practice of Physical Exercise (AMPEF) and the Self-report on Barriers to Physical Exercise (ABPEF) were applied. A multiple linear regression analysis was performed using the stepwise method. The main motivational predictor variables for exercising are: competition, social recognition and challenge (16.1%), muscular strength/endurance (13.3%), and prevention/positive health (12%). The barriers for the practice of physical exercise with a greater predictive influence are: fatigue/laziness (14.9%), body image/physical-social anxiety (15%), and obligations/lack of time (3.6%). The contribution of sociodemographic variables is significant but scarce. These novel results will allow these variables to be included in effective prevention and intervention programs for the promotion of physical exercise in adolescents.