UCSF

Introduction

Latino adolescents experience high rates of obesity and physical activity can protect against obesity and obesity comorbidities. Health interventions to promote physical activity are more likely to be successful if they take into account the experiences and perspectives of their target population. Our study objective was to explore barriers and facilitators to physical activity among Latino adolescents with the goal of informing future interventions for this population.

Method

Semistructured interviews were conducted with (n = 30) low-income, Latino adolescents. The interviews were analyzed using inductive methods and the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation model of behavior.

Results

Adolescents described capability gaps including lacking skills for preferred activities. School physical education and parks provided opportunities for adolescents to be physically active. Adolescents also described opportunity challenges, including age limits, not being able to afford preferred classes, and safety concerns. Families provided role modeling but rarely engaged in activities with adolescents. Adolescents were motivated to engage in physical activity but often lacked the necessary resources.

Conclusions

Interventions to increase physical activity among urban Latino adolescents should offer tailored programming, incorporate families, enhance physical education, and improve the safety and appeal of recreational facilities.