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