Benefits and Barriers of Physical Activity in Social Inclusion and Quality of Life in People with Serious Mental Disorders

Abstract

This book chapter presents a review of the main benefits that the practice of physical activity brings to people with severe mental disorder (SMD), as well as highlighting the most significant barriers that hinder their adherence. In this regard, it should be noted that this is a population sector in which sedentary lifestyle habits predominate, showing that physical activity is not only beneficial for physical health but also for mental and social health. However, people with severe mental disorder face barriers in which personal, social, and intervention program factors play a role, what makes regular practice difficult for them and, therefore, to access the numerous benefits it brings.