An identification of physical activity levels and perceived barriers in the transition between school and young adulthood: relative to socio-ecologic status.

Abstract

Being so closely related to health and wellbeing, physical activity is a constant topic for research. Due to the broad nature of the topic, it is evident that many aspects have been overlooked or merely touched upon. The aim of this study was to investigate how physical activity levels are affected by the transition from school into young adulthood. Transitions and stagnations in socio-ecologic status were also considered. Barriers to physical activity were identified, with the aim of recognising which category requires aid in facilitating physical activity. Within this study, a quantitative and deductive research approach was employed, utilising the use of questionnaires. 50 members of the general public aged 18-20 (male N=29, female N=21) completed questionnaires relating to activity levels and barriers in regards to a typical week when they were in year 11 and a typical current week. From the results it was unearthed that the least physically active group, relative to barriers faced was the group who moved from an urban area in year 11 to a rural area at the age of 18-20; more specifically, post transition into adulthood (M=5,007MET-Mins exercise, SD=1,483.28). The key barrier encountered by this group was „Lack of Resources‟, this was not only due to the actual lack of resources available in the rural areas; but also due to the usual habits and behaviours relative to physical activeness having to change. This group would have been used to resources such as available sporting facilities, but after moving to a rural area they would have to try to adjust to cope with such barriers.