Perceived Barriers to Leisure-time Physical Activity among Individuals at Risk of Type 2 Diabetes in India

Abstract Background: Research on barriers to physical activity among adults in India is limited, and even less is known about this issue among individuals at high risk of developing diabetes. Objectives: We aimed to identify the perceived barriers to leisure-time physical activity among individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes in an Indian population. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized baseline data (collected in 2013) from 1007 participants enrolled in the Kerala Diabetes Prevention Program. These participants were randomly selected from 60 polling areas (electoral divisions) in the Trivandrum district of Kerala state. Standardized questionnaires were employed to collect information on socio-demographics, leisure-time physical activity levels, and perceived barriers to physical activity. Statistical analyses comprised chi-square and t tests. Results: More than three-fourths (79.6%) of participants reported being physically inactive during their leisure time, with females showing a higher prevalence (84.6%) than males (75.2%; P < 0.001). The most common perceived barriers for both males (52.4%) and females (51.0%) in participating in leisure-time physical activities were “other priorities,” such as time constraints, family obligations, and work commitments. Females were significantly more likely than males to cite “lack of exercise skills,” “lack of social support,” and “exercise is not important” as barriers to leisure-time physical activity (all P < 0.05). Conclusion: Our study shows concerning levels of physical inactivity during leisure time among participants, particularly among females. Furthermore, the findings underscore the critical need for implementing interventions specifically targeted at addressing gender-specific barriers to leisure-time physical activity.