Regular physical activity is a low priority to at least one third of British men. Those aged between 30 and 50 years are often not very physically active because they are busy with work and family commitments. Lack of physical activity is linked to a range of health problems including obesity, heart disease and some forms of cancer. However, it’s not difficult to include regular physical activity as part of your lifestyle.
If you have a medical condition, are overweight, are over 40 years of age or haven’t exercised regularly for a long time, see your doctor for a check-up, advice and support before beginning or increasing your physical activity levels.
| • | Lack of physical ability – health issues that make activity and movement uncomfortable such as obesity, back pain or persistent fatigue are a common barrier to regular participation in physical activity. |
| • | Limited access to physical activity options – gym fees, sport club memberships and some types of exercise equipment can be expensive. The local neighbourhood may have limited recreational venues, such as parks. In other cases, outdoor exercise is avoided because the neighbourhood isn’t considered safe. |
| • | Weather – extremes of hot and cold weather can sap the motivation to undertake physical activity outdoors. |
| Physical activity
barriers Some of the more common reasons why some men don’t exercise include: |
|
| • | Lack of time – men aged between 30 and 50 are typically busy with work and family commitments. When leisure time is limited, it’s natural to choose enjoyable activities – if men don’t view physical activity as enjoyable, they won’t do it. |
| • | Lack of interest – some men believe in the ‘no pain, no gain’ misconception, and think that only gruelling and uncomfortable forms of physical activity are worthwhile. However, physical activity doesn’t have to be particularly vigorous. Any activity that works the major muscle groups, such as walking, gardening and even washing the car, is usually demanding enough to offer health benefits. |
| • | Lack of motivation – some men view health as a low priority. Unfortunately, the motivation to become more active may only come from a health scare. |
