Biggest obstacles to getting energetic named – as lack of native amenities an element

A poll of 2,000 adults has uncovered the biggest barriers to being more active, from class fees and lack of green space to fear of being judged

Brits have revealed the biggest barriers to getting active. A poll of 2,000 adults found class fees (26%), equipment (25%) and travel (19%) puts them off moving more. A further 27% said they struggle with a lack of motivation, finding it hard to stay consistent with regular exercise.

The average Brit spends 45 minutes in a typical exercise session, but 36% weren’t aware the UK government recommends at least two and half hours of moderate to intense activity a week.

Chronic health conditions (15%) and fear of injury (15%) were also among barriers to being more active. But what’s more, 19% felt there aren’t enough opportunities available to get active in their area.

The research was commissioned by KP Snacks, sponsors of The Hundred cricket tournament and the Cricket Cities fund which aims to create opportunities for those from underserved urban areas to get active.

A spokesperson for the brand said: “Something as simple as not having access to a safe green space, affordable activities or the confidence to take part can make a real difference to people’s health and wellbeing.

“That’s why it’s so important that communities have opportunities close to home that make being active feel accessible and inclusive for everyone.

“We hope initiatives like the cricket fund can help remove some of those obstacles and inspire more people to get involved in sport and physical activity.”

More than half (56%) of respondents admitted to never having played cricket before, while 31% don’t feel it’s accessible in their area. But 30% would be interested in taking part in the sport – if it was offered in their local area.

With free sessions (24%), equipment being provided (21%) and flexible timings (20%) among the things that would encourage them to take to the wicket.

Almost seven in 10 (69%) of those in urban areas would like to be more active than they currently are compared to 62% in rural towns.

And of those who took part in the study by OnePoll.com, 65% of all respondents think more funding should be invested into community sport and local facilities.

A spokesperson for KP Snacks added: “We know the desire to be more active is there, but for many people the opportunities simply aren’t. That’s why it’s so important that communities have chances close to home that make being active feel accessible and inclusive for everyone.

“Everyone should have the chance to enjoy the benefits that being active can bring, regardless of where they live or their circumstances.

“By investing in local facilities, sessions and community programmes, we can help create environments where people feel supported to take that first step.”

BIGGEST BARRIERS TO GETTING ACTIVE:

1. Lack of personal free time
2. Lack of motivation/staying consistent
3. Cost
4. Confidence
5. Chronic health conditions
6. Fear of injury
7. Social isolation (e.g. no one to go with)
8. Fear of being judged
9. Low body image
10. Shift work
11. Lack of equipment
12. Lack of age-appropriate offers
13. Lack of childcare
14. No green space
15. Lack of access to transport