Barriers to home-based physical activity and predictors of activity levels among women with high sedentary habits: an explanatory mixed-methods study

83.8% of women were in the inactive and low-activity category. The main barriers to physical activity included not prioritizing exercise, insufficient time, household responsibilities, and a deficit in motivation. Predictors included environmental barriers (P = 0.009, β = 0.701), social obstacles (P ≤ 0.001, β = 1.179), and lack of motivation (P ≤ 0.001, β = 1.836), all of which significantly impact the level of moderate to vigorous physical activity. The qualitative analysis classified barriers into three categories: personal, social, and environmental. Interventions such as community programs, awareness campaigns, and improved infrastructure are crucial. Health policymakers can take action with targeted strategies to remove barriers and promote women's physical activity.