PERCEIVED BARRIERS AND FACILITATORS TO PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AMONG POSTGRADUATE MEDICAL TRAINEES

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Postgraduate medical trainees face unique internal and external challenges affecting physical activity, including time constraints, fatigue, and limited access to facilities. Conversely, factors such as social support, structured opportunities, and incentives can facilitate exercise. Understanding these influences is critical for promoting active lifestyles in this population.

OBJECTIVE: To determine perceived barriers and facilitators to physical activity among postgraduate medical trainees in Pakistan.

METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional online survey was conducted from January–March 2024 among postgraduate medical trainees enrolled in accredited programs. Data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire distributed through WhatsApp and Facebook groups. Physical activity levels were assessed using the WHO Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) and categorized into low, moderate, or high activity. The minimum sample size was 267, calculated using a 95% confidence level and 6% margin of error. Descriptive statistics were analyzed using SPSS v23.

RESULTS: Of 267 respondents, 44.9% were male and 55.1% female; the majority specialized in medicine (33.7%) and was in Year 1 of training (31.8%). Physical activity levels were low in 44.9%, moderate in 41.2%, and high in 13.9%. Major barriers included lack of time (mean 2.42±0.92), exercise facilities with incompatible schedules (2.44±0.99), and physical fatigue (2.37±0.95). Key facilitators were social encouragement, workplace flexibility, and access to affordable exercise facilities.

CONCLUSION: Nearly half of postgraduate medical trainees reported low physical activity, with time constraints and fatigue as primary barriers. Targeted interventions, including flexible scheduling, accessible facilities, and peer support, are essential to foster sustainable physical activity habits in this group.

KEYWORDS: Barriers, Facilitators Physical Activity, Lifestyle habits, Medical