Exercise benefits and barriers in an extension‐delivered diabetes prevention program

Limited evidence of determinants of exercise (EX)/physical activity (PA) behavior change exists in the context of Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) implementation. Participants (n = 50, 57.3±12.9 yo, BMI = 35.1±6.2) were assessed for weight status, self-reported EX/PA behavior, and perceived benefits and barriers at baseline and completion of an Extension-delivered DPP. EX/PA behavior improved in response to the intervention, albeit statistically insignificant (<i>P</i> > .05). Perceived benefits of EX/PA were 1) enhanced physical performance and 2) reduction in risk of disease, whereas the exertion for EX/PA behaviors was the greatest barrier (all <i>P</i> < .05).