Barriers and Incentives to Physical Activity: Findings fromIndonesian Pregnant and Postpartum Mothers

Abstract

Objective: The current study intends to inquire if pregnant and postpartum mothers are meeting the recommended level of physical activity, that is, 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity throughout a week. The study also explores possible barriers and facilitating factors to exercising regularly to see differing patterns among the regularly exercising mothers and the non-exercisers. Method: A total of 190 mothers (69 pregnant) participated in an online-based survey. They answer questionnaires that gather their demographic information, physical activity pattern, and barriers-incentives to exercise. Results: The ones who do not exercise regularly outnumber those who regularly do. Both pregnant and postpartum mothers were not meeting the recommended physical activity level, although the postpartum mothers reported significantly higher engagement in physical activity. The mothers, however, did not differ in total time spent sitting. The pregnant and non-pregnant mothers differed in their perception of barriers and incentives to exercise, with non-exercising mothers reporting significantly more obstacles than their counterparts. The mothers' lack of motivation, self-efficacy, and absence of social support were the primary hindrances to participants exercising regularly. Conclusion: Mothers, especially pregnant and postpartum mothers, continue to be a high-risk group for physical inactivity. Understanding the mother's primary barriers and incentives to exercise may be crucial in improving their physical activity level and reducing their sedentary time.