Sedentary shields: a qualitative exploration of facilitators and barriers of physical activity among policemen in Kerala, India

Policing is a challenging occupation. Epidemiological studies suggest that police officers have an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity. Physical inactivity is a highly prevalent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. The objective of this study was to identify the perceived barriers and facilitators to physical activity among police officers in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, India. The study was conducted using a descriptive qualitative design, with data analyzed through inductive thematic analysis. The participants of the study were in-station police officers in the age group 30–55 years from 14 police stations in Thiruvananthapuram district. A total of fifteen in-depth interviews and four focus group discussions were conducted. The audio-recorded data were thematically analysed. The common barriers identified were shift duty, job demands, high stress load, lack of sleep, unfavourable working environment and lack of self- motivation. Time constraints with lack of self-management skills and low priority for their health over other family and social obligations were identified as socio-environmental barriers. The identified facilitators were occupational demand to maintain physical fitness, positive attitude towards physical activity, high self- efficacy, peer pressure and apprehension or experience of diseases. Our study underscores the critical role of personal factors in shaping the physical activity levels of police officers. However, we recognize the impact of workplace environments, and propose interventions targeting these factors alongside personal considerations to reduce barriers to physical activity. By including personal factors-focused workplace interventions, we can effectively enhance overall physical activity levels among police personnel.