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Exercise Attitudes and Behaviors: A Survey of Adults Age 50-79 - Aarp

Exercise Attitudes and Behaviors: A Survey of Adults Age 50-79 - Aarp

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V. Barriers to <strong>Exercise</strong><br />

Major Reasons Why Don’t Currently <strong>Exercise</strong><br />

Barriers to <strong>Exercise</strong><br />

Just as Americans <strong>50</strong>-<strong>79</strong> who exercise give a variety <strong>of</strong> reasons for<br />

engaging in physical activities, those who don’t exercise also have their<br />

share <strong>of</strong> reasons for not doing so.<br />

Health Problems<br />

• One third <strong>of</strong> non-exercisers (34%) say that health problems prevent<br />

them from exercising.<br />

• For some (8%), the prospect <strong>of</strong> possibly getting hurt is also a major<br />

reason why they are not currently exercising.<br />

Time Constraints<br />

• Finding a time to exercise when you are feeling up to the challenge is a<br />

major problem for many. Thirty-seven percent say they are too tired<br />

or lacking energy to exercise, the most common reason Americans <strong>50</strong>-<br />

<strong>79</strong> give for not engaging in physical activities.<br />

• One in four (26%) simply says he or she does not have enough time.<br />

This is especially a problem for those still working, compared to those<br />

who are not (39% versus 16%).<br />

Poor Location or Surroundings<br />

Having a good place to exercise that is safe <strong>and</strong> inexpensive—<strong>and</strong> having<br />

someone to exercise with—are also major reasons why Americans age <strong>50</strong><br />

<strong>and</strong> over do not exercise.<br />

• One in three (34%) says that because gym/class memberships are too<br />

expensive, he or she is not exercising.<br />

• Thirteen percent mention not having anyone to exercise with as a<br />

major reason why they do not exercise.<br />

© 2002 AARP Page 60

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