Module 5 Active Healthy Mother

Barriers for Women

So, what are the common barriers to physical activity for women?

Research suggests that women commonly identify the following barriers:

  • Lack of time
  • Lack of money
  • Being overweight or out of shape
  • Feeling down or a mental health issue
  • Responsibility for the care of others
  • Too tired
  • Worried about appearances whilst exercising
  • Urinary continence (leaking urine) or other pelvic floor disorders (This is the most common barrier to physical activity for women who leak urine)
  • Exercise is not a priority
  • Musculoskeletal pain or injury. For example, back pain
  • Health issues
  • Lack of family or friends to exercise with
  • Concerns about personal security whilst exercising
  • Lack of knowledge or skill about exercise
    Entry last updated 24 February, 2020