Page 62 - project_booklet

P A R T 5
Factors Prevent and Motivate Participation in Physical Activity

Despite the known and proven benefits of physical activity, millions of people are physically inactive and
therefore the negative effects of physical inactivity are increasing (Reichert et al., 2007). Problems related
to human health have become one of the biggest problems of the 21st century (Pederson et al., 2013).
Individuals who are not sufficiently active have a 20% to 30% increased risk of death compared to more
active people (WHO, 2019).
Due to the fact that participation in physical activity has such an important place in the life of the individual
and society, scientists ask, "Why do people participate in physical activity?" or "What kinds of factors
encourage people to engage in physical activity?"
According to the World Health Organization, the reasons for not participating in physical activity are stated
as the lack of parks, walking paths and physical activity areas (WHO, 2019). The fact that individuals do not
spare enough time for physical activity also emerges as an important factor. In addition to the time
problem, situations such as not enjoying physical activity and feeling very tired are among the reasons for
not participating in physical activity (Lee et al., 1997). In particular, individuals who have not adopted
regular physical activity behavior seek ways to escape from physical activity by citing various reasons. There
are a number of psychological barriers to physical activity, including problems such as body image, poor
self-confidence, and inability to receive immediate rewards (Miles, 2007). In general, we can classify the
factors that prevent participation in physical activity as personal, social and environmental factors.
1. Personal Factors that Prevent Participation in Physical Activity
• Age and Gender
• Skill level
• Self-confidence
• Personal obligations
• Lack of time
2. Social Factors that Prevent Participation in Physical Activity
• Spendable budget
• Friends and family
• Job
• Culture
3. Environmental Factors that Prevent Participation in Physical Activity
• Facility diversity and quality
• Location of facilities

59