Barriers and Facilitators of Physical Activity among Adolescents of Debre Berhan City Administration; Qualitative Study.

Abstract Background: Most adolescents are insufficiently physically active and it contributes to 3.2 million deaths each year. Environmental and systemic factors influence the level of physical activity. Sedentary work and living environments, socioeconomic status and limited access to facilities are barriers ofphysical activity. Objectives: The main objective of this study was to explore barriers and facilitators of physical activity among adolescents of Debre Berhan City Administration. Methodology: School based qualitative study was conducted among 64 adolescents in Debre Berhan City Administration from June 1-20 2019. Data was collected using eight focus group discussions with a focus group guide. Inductive analysis was done using ATLA.ti version 7. Result: A total of eight focus group discussion were conducted from June 1-20/2019. Three out of the sixty-four participants reported that they do physical activity on a regular basis. Social and personal factors (lack of role model, absence of family or friend influence, bad example, shortage of time, lack of interest and financial constraints) and environmental(Lack of access to play ground, lack of access to gymnasium, lack of conducive environment, poor school environment, harsh (polluted) environment, not friendly (girls) environment, poor urban planning and developmental activities) factors were reported to be barriers of physical activity while being member of a club, improving self-image and maintaining fitness are facilitators of physical activity. Conclusion and Recommendation: Lack of social support, lack of access to play ground and poor construction and developmental activities are the main barriers of physical activity. Therefore, Debre Berhan City Administration should work towards improving urban planning and avail girls’ friendly playground and gymnasium for every resident. Key Words Physical activity, Qualitative Study, Barriers, Facilitators