Abstract
Physical activity (PA) rates are low among breast cancer survivors (BCS). In order to promote well-being in this growing population, understanding the enablers and barriers to engaging in PA may help inform the development of targeted interventions aimed at increasing PA levels in BCS. This qualitative study described women's motives, perceived barriers and facilitators to engaging in PA following the completion of primary treatment for breast cancer. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposeful sample of 11 BCS (Mage = 56.7 years; Mtime since treatment = 4.45 years). Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using an inductive analysis approach. Motives to engage in PA included psychological/emotional well-being, appearance management, physical health, social relationships, and feeling pressured by others. Perceived barriers included time constraints, physical limitations, lack of motivation, competing responsibilities, lack of knowledge, lack of facilities/opportunities, weather conditions, and limited tangible support (e.g., direct involvement of friends/family). Facilitators included accessibility of facilities, informational support, and the presence of a PA partner. Overall, BCS were physically active for similar reasons as those reported by non-clinical samples of women. Researchers should focus on understanding how women's motivational needs may be met in order to effectively increase PA. Most barriers that constrained BCS' PA participation appear to be amenable to change. Thus, discussion of barriers to engaging in PA may be a key component of PA programs. Furthermore, promoting facilitators may also be an important part of PA programs for BCS.Acknowledgments: The first author is supported by a Canada Graduate Scholarship from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) and a CIHR strategic training award.