Perceived barriers to leisure time physical activity: What Brazilians have to say?

Physical inactivity is a major public health concern worldwide. Leisure time is an important domain of physical activity that draws the attention of researchers due to its voluntary characteristic. Understanding the barriers that prevent individuals to be engaged in leisure time physical activity should be an ongoing concern that has the potential to lead to better strategies and interventions to promote physical activity in the populations. Objectives: This study explored perceived barriers to leisure time physical activity (LTPA) in Brazilian adults living in a midsize city. Methods: A total of 1213 adults were evaluated on barriers to LTPA. LTPA was assessed using the section four of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Barriers were assessed using a list of 22 factors that prevent individuals engaging in LTPA. Results: Women, insufficiently active men and women, and low incoming individuals reported a higher number of barriers in average compared to their counterparts. Lack of time and feeling too lazy presented the strongest association with being inactive during leisure time. Conclusions: Understanding factors related to physical inactivity can help authorities in creating strategies, and developing effective health promotion programs.