Barriers to Physical Activity Participation in a Texas-Mexico Border Community: Associations With Motivational, Physical, and Environmental Barriers.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVES

Physical activity (PA) is important for overall well-being, but participation remains low in underserved Texas-Mexico border communities. This study, part of a local needs assessment, examined how motivational, physical, and environmental barriers relate to PA and sedentary behavior among adults in Brownsville, Texas.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was administered to 144 adults in Brownsville, Texas. Participants completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form and rated 12 perceived barriers to PA across 3 domains: motivational, physical, and environmental. Multiple linear regression models examined associations between barriers and PA levels (moderate-to-vigorous PA [MVPA] and light PA [LPA]) and sedentary behavior (sitting time), adjusting for age, gender, and socioeconomic status.

RESULTS

Difficulty initiating PA was significantly associated with lower MVPA (B = -462.46, P < .001). Feeling too tired after work (B = 137.28, P = .002) was associated with greater sitting time, whereas having a busy day (β = -152.54, P = .001) and limited recreational access were associated with less sitting time (β = -102.95, P = .04). No barriers were significantly associated with LPA.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings highlight the need for multilevel interventions that address both psychological and contextual challenges to PA in border communities. Tailored strategies that enhance self-efficacy, reduce fatigue, and improve environmental safety may help reduce disparities in PA engagement and sedentary behavior.