FACILITATORS AND BARRIERS TO LEISURE TIME PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES: A QUALITATIVE STUDY

Problem: Despite the many benefits of physical activity for people with disabilities, the inactivity rate in this population is very high. Aim: to explore, from a socio-ecological model, facilitators and barriers that affect the leisure time physical activity of university students with disabilities. Methodology: Qualitative methodological approach. Five university students with disabilities who engage in leisure time physical activity has been in-depth interviewed. Results: The categorical content analysis shows facilitators such as social support, motivation, social relations or the recognition of physical and psychological benefits. On the other hand, there are also several barriers such as lack of information, accessibility problems or social exclusion. Conclusion: Study highlight the need to boost facilitators and minimize the barriers identified for greater participation of people with disabilities on physical activity.