Barriers to Physical Activity in Adolescents

Abstract

Abstract Physical activity is an important component to living a healthy lifestyle; however, adolescents’ physical activity levels are often very low. Thus, the purpose of this synthesis was to examine barriers adolescents face when it comes to being physically active and find out how they can be prevented or overcome. The critical mass revealed several internal and external barriers that adolescents face. These include lack of motivation/interest, lack of resources, and increased screen time. Since the research is examining adolescents, parents also played a large role in the studies. In order to address some of the barriers, strategies focused on increasing motivation, providing adequate social support, and redirecting screen time should be implemented. Future research should look further into trying to prevent barriers, especially internal ones that adolescents have more control over. If barriers are prevented, then adolescents will hopefully be more physically active and live a healthy lifestyle. Keywords: Barriers, adolescents, physical activity