Physical Activity Pattern among Health Care Professionals and its Barriers: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Background: Healthcare professionals are widely regarded as role models for healthy living. Yet, despite being equipped with medical knowledge, they often face significant barriers to maintaining adequate physical activity, compromising their health and capacity to promote wellness among patients.

Objectives: To assess physical activity patterns among doctors in the tertiary hospital in Coimbatore, India, and to identify barriers influencing their participation in regular physical activity.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2024 to June 2025 among 152 doctors using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-Short Form) alongside structured tools to assess barriers, lifestyle, and personal habits. Physical activity was quantified in MET-minutes/week and categorized into low, moderate, and high levels. Associations with lifestyle factors were analyzed using chi-square tests.

Results: A majority (72.4%) of participants were classified as highly active, 20.4% as moderately active, and 7.2% as having low physical activity. Lack of time (72.4%) was the most cited barrier, followed by lack of energy (36.9%) and inadequate access to facilities (23%). Statistically significant associations were observed between physical activity levels and frequency of eating out (P < 0.001), vegetable intake (P = 0.021), and sleep duration (P = 0.026).

Conclusion: Despite high physical activity levels among most doctors, substantial barriers persist that impede regular exercise. Institutional strategies targeting time constraints, fatigue, and facility access may enhance the sustainability of physical activity among medical professionals.