Benefits and Barriers to Physical Activity in Individuals with Chronic Conditions: A Qualitative Exploration Following a Structured Exercise Intervention
Faculty Mentor Name
Alexis King
Research or Creativity Area
Health Sciences
Abstract
Purpose Regular physical activity is essential for managing chronic disease; however, long-term adherence remains a challenge. Guided by Self-Determination Theory (SDT), this study aimed to explore perceived benefits, barriers, and motivational factors influencing sustained physical activity among individuals with chronic conditions following participation in a structured exercise intervention.
Methods Four participants were recruited from a hospital-based 12-week physical activity program designed for individuals with chronic disease. Eligible participants had completed the program and continued to engage in voluntary group exercise sessions at a community gym. A qualitative research design was employed using semi-structured interviews to capture participants lived experiences before, during, and after the program. Interview questions were informed by SDT constructs, including autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis, incorporating both inductive coding and deductive alignment with SDT.
Results Analysis revealed that long-term exercise adherence was characterized by a progression from externally driven engagement to internally motivated behavior. Initial participation was primarily influenced by health-related events and medical referral; however, sustained engagement was driven by intrinsic factors such as improved mental well-being, physical function, and overall quality of life. The fulfillment of psychological needs was central to adherence. Autonomy developed as participants adapted prescribed exercise routines to align with personal preferences while maintaining program structure. Competence was reinforced through perceived physical and functional improvements, contributing to increased confidence in the ability to maintain exercise over time. Relatedness emerged as a critical factor, with participants emphasizing the importance of social connection, group camaraderie, and support from program staff; for some, the group environment was a primary motivator for continued participation. Psychological benefits were reported as more influential than physical outcomes in sustaining behavior. Despite common barriers, including fatigue and illness, participants demonstrated adaptive strategies that supported ongoing engagement. Notably, participants did not perceive the program as having a defined endpoint, instead describing exercise as an integrated and ongoing part of their daily routines and identities.
Conclusion Findings suggest that long-term adherence to physical activity in individuals with chronic conditions is supported by the fulfillment of autonomy, competence, and relatedness, consistent with SDT. Structured exercise programs that foster psychological need satisfaction and facilitate the transition from external to internal motivation may enhance sustained engagement and promote long-term behavior change.
Benefits and Barriers to Physical Activity in Individuals with Chronic Conditions: A Qualitative Exploration Following a Structured Exercise Intervention
Purpose Regular physical activity is essential for managing chronic disease; however, long-term adherence remains a challenge. Guided by Self-Determination Theory (SDT), this study aimed to explore perceived benefits, barriers, and motivational factors influencing sustained physical activity among individuals with chronic conditions following participation in a structured exercise intervention.
Methods Four participants were recruited from a hospital-based 12-week physical activity program designed for individuals with chronic disease. Eligible participants had completed the program and continued to engage in voluntary group exercise sessions at a community gym. A qualitative research design was employed using semi-structured interviews to capture participants lived experiences before, during, and after the program. Interview questions were informed by SDT constructs, including autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis, incorporating both inductive coding and deductive alignment with SDT.
Results Analysis revealed that long-term exercise adherence was characterized by a progression from externally driven engagement to internally motivated behavior. Initial participation was primarily influenced by health-related events and medical referral; however, sustained engagement was driven by intrinsic factors such as improved mental well-being, physical function, and overall quality of life. The fulfillment of psychological needs was central to adherence. Autonomy developed as participants adapted prescribed exercise routines to align with personal preferences while maintaining program structure. Competence was reinforced through perceived physical and functional improvements, contributing to increased confidence in the ability to maintain exercise over time. Relatedness emerged as a critical factor, with participants emphasizing the importance of social connection, group camaraderie, and support from program staff; for some, the group environment was a primary motivator for continued participation. Psychological benefits were reported as more influential than physical outcomes in sustaining behavior. Despite common barriers, including fatigue and illness, participants demonstrated adaptive strategies that supported ongoing engagement. Notably, participants did not perceive the program as having a defined endpoint, instead describing exercise as an integrated and ongoing part of their daily routines and identities.
Conclusion Findings suggest that long-term adherence to physical activity in individuals with chronic conditions is supported by the fulfillment of autonomy, competence, and relatedness, consistent with SDT. Structured exercise programs that foster psychological need satisfaction and facilitate the transition from external to internal motivation may enhance sustained engagement and promote long-term behavior change.
