1. Recognize personal barriers to
physical activity, including lack of motivation, lack of time, lack of
knowledge on how to start a program, lack of community facilities, fear
of injury, or disease/disability that hinder physical activity.
Quotes
Barrier
Strategy
I'm not motivated
I don't feel like exercising
I'm too old; it's too late
Exercise is not for me
I'm too tired
Lack of motivation
Emphasize the importance
and benefits of regular physical activity,
including health and function. Discuss methods of getting started such
as walking the dog, taking the stairs, etc.
I don't have time
I have too many other things to do
Lack of time
Begin with 5-10 minutes of
daily activity that is enjoyable. Set aside a specific time of the day
to be active.
I can't afford a gym
I don't have transportation
There's no safe place to exercise
The weather is bad (hot, cold, etc)
Lack of facilities
Physical activity doesn't
require expensive
equipment, and can be done at home.
I'm afraid of getting hurt
I get too sore
Fear of injury
Moderate activity is safe.
Soreness is to be
expected with any new exercise program, and will resolve in a few days.
I don't know how to get
started
I don't know what to do
I'm afraid to bulk up
Lack of knowledge
Discuss how patients can
do simple and enjoyable
tasks, and provide a structured activity program specific to their
needs.
I have sore joints, bad
back
I'm too fat or heavy
My condition will get worse
Disease or disability
Patients may need referral
to another specialist
(such as a physical therapist) to address physical conditions. Regular
exercise
actually benefits most injuries and diseases.
I don't have anyone to
exercise with
My family/friends think it's a bad idea
Culturally specific questions
Lack of friend/family
support
Encourage patients to find
a partner to exercise
with, and to educate their family members on the importance of activity.
2. Note importance of increasing physical
activity for health and prevention of disease & disability
a.
Reduces risk of developing chronic diseases such as
heart disease.
b. Aids in
the management of active problems such as high blood pressure,
diabetes, obesity, or high cholesterol.
c. Can
improve the ability to function and stay independent in the face of
active problems like lung disease or arthritis
3. Avoid the term, "exercise" and avoid
the perception of strenuous workouts; use the term, "physical activity"
and encourage individuals to incorporate activity in daily life,
encouraging a lifestyle change.
4. Recommend behavioural modification
programs for individuals
