Motivators and barriers to physical activity: a systematic review of qualitative studies

Physical activity is significant for both mental and physical health. It is lacking in routine lives. This study aimed to identify and synthesise the motivators and barriers to physical activity reported across qualitative studies. This systematic review searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Trip Database up to November 2025 using terms related to physical activity, motivators, and barriers. Studies involving participants aged under 18 years and those with physical limitations precluding activity were excluded. Nine qualitative studies published in English that examined motivators, barriers, or both were included. Study quality was appraised using the critical appraisal skills programme (CASP) checklist. Data on study year, setting, population characteristics, and perceived motivators and barriers were extracted and analysed to identify themes common across studies as well as those specific to age, gender, or geographic location. Perceived physical and psychological benefits (improved fitness, energy, and confidence), social support (from family, peers, and instructors), programme flexibility, structured routines, and environmental facilitators (walkable neighbourhoods, favourable weather) emerged as the principal motivators. Barriers were identified at the individual (fatigue, poor goal-setting, comorbidities), interpersonal (lack of peer support, cultural responsibilities), organisational (workload, unsupportive workplace policies), and environmental (adverse weather, unsafe surroundings, limited facilities) levels. Motivators and barriers to physical activity vary according to personal, social, and environmental circumstances. Effective interventions should therefore address these determinants concurrently-through flexible scheduling, safe exercise environments, workplace accommodations, and community support-to promote physical activity and improve population health.