Health-Enhancing Physical Activity (HEPA) and Its Barriers Among Working Women at Mansoura University, Egypt

Background: Identifying physical activity (PA) and its barriers among middle-aged women may aid in the development of age-specific health promotion interventions. In Egypt, women, particularly those in the workforce, typically face numerous barriers that result in low levels of PA. This research seeks to assess the prevalence of health-enhancing physical activity (HEPA) among working women at Mansoura University and identify the associated barriers. Methods: This cross-sectional study employs a quantitative methodology that includes an analytic component. We studied a non-random sample of 760 Egyptian women employed at Mansoura University. Sociodemographic data were collected, and the international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ) short form was used to assess the level of PA. Additionally, the Barriers to Being Active Quiz (BBAQ) was used to assess barriers to PA. Results: One-fourth of women engage in HEPA; 44.9% are classified as minimally active, while 30.1% are inactive. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed the type of job is an independent predictor of HEPA, with ARR of 1.7 for manager and administrative roles. The total BBAQ score significantly predicts HEPA (ARR = 0.94). Social influences and lack of willpower scores are significant independent predictors of HEPA (ARR = 0.9 and 0.8, respectively). Most individuals encounter two to five barriers, with only 11.3% experiencing no PA barriers. The most frequently reported barrier is the lack of energy (80.4%), followed by the lack of resources, willpower, and time (74.04%, 69.6%, and 69.4%, respectively). Conclusions: The prevalence of HEPA is low among working women at Mansoura University. Policymakers can utilize findings to promote engagement with and adherence to physical activity.