Barriers and Benefits of Physical Activity: a Multidisciplinary Approach to University and School Student Engagement

Резюме:

Physical activity (PA) is widely acknowledged for its numerous health benefits, yet participation rates among university students and adolescents remain suboptimal. This paper examines the barriers and benefits to physical activity from a multidisciplinary perspective, focusing on university students and adolescents aged 14–19 years. Drawing on a range of studies, the article explores psychological, sociocultural, and environmental factors that either facilitate or inhibit physical activity engagement. Key themes include the impact of psychological factors such as enjoyment and motivation, the role of gender and social norms, and the importance of educational and environmental support structures. Through synthesizing findings from various scholarly works, the paper highlights the necessity of tailored interventions that promote inclusive, enjoyable, and accessible physical activity opportunities to improve engagement. The article concludes with recommendations for enhancing physical activity participation, suggesting both individual level strategies and systemic policy changes to create a more supportive environment for young individuals to engage in regular physical activity.

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