Barriers and motivations perceived by adolescents related to physical activity. Qualitative study through discussion groups

Background: Acquiring the habit of doing regular physical activity in adolescents has shown positive effects in the prevention of diseases and the maintenance of physical and psychological health. The objective was to explore the topics related to physical activity of a group of adolescents, to identify the barriers and motivators of regular physical activity practice. Methods: Qualitative research of phenomenological explanatory design. The information was obtained through four Discussion Groups conducted with: a) expert professionals (6 participants); b) adolescents of both sexes (10 participants); c) female adolescents (6 participants); d) male adolescents (9 participants). Results: Perceived barriers and motivations were detected in all groups of adolescents, contributing a total of 104 units of analysis. The group of experts emphasized the need to involve the family, the school, and the agents that surround the teenagers. The adolescents showed barriers related to incompatibilities due to lack of time, participation in leisure activities and demotivation due to routine and imposed activities (37; 35.5%). Motivation was related to participation in team sports and the positive influence of friends (28; 28%). The girls also showed concern about their body image and diet (39; 37.5%). Conclusions: Barriers were identified in relation to the close environment of the adolescents in three main areas: family, friends and school. Motivators were linked to social and multicultural components. Priority actions in this group are to promote activities that include team sports as a mean to enhance social support.