Barriers to Leisure-Time Physical Activity among Young Students: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Background of the study: Wellbeing is a crucial measure of health outcomes, especially for children. It is crucial to understand that regularly exercising is one of the best ways to live a healthy life and be fit, as stated in the 2020 guidelines of the World Health Organization. Such emphasis on the young population is imperative since exercise enhances their health and development canal. To identify the perceived barrier to leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) among 8-16-year-old school-going children. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design opted to survey 378 participants selected by convenient, non-purposive sampling techniques, aged between 8 to 16 years, in the schools of Karachi after obtaining informed consent from guardians. Data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire; descriptive statistics was used to calculate the results. Results: Average age of study participants was 12.54 years. Findings showed that the barriers to excessive homework, weather, and preference for other activities had means and standard deviations of 1.21 ± 0.41, 1.34 ± 0.47, and 1.34 ± 0.48, respectively. Additionally, 87.6% of students enjoyed leisure walking, and 56.9% used walking as a means of commuting. Conclusion: Study findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and policy measures to promote physical activity and enhance the overall wellbeing of this age group in the region.