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3404279 
Journal Article 
Perceived barriers to walking activity of college students 
Martin, JT; Santos, ME 
2015 
Yes 
Asia Life Sciences
ISSN: 0117-3375 
ASIA LIFE SCIENCES 
LOS BANOS, COLLEGE 
24 
1 
207-217 
WOS:000361410100016 
Over the past decade, the health benefits of walking have received increased research attention. Studies show that there is a clear link between health and the amount of walking a person does. However, although people are aware of its benefits, walking rates have declined steadily. In particular, college students' daily steps do not meet recommended levels of physical activity. This study investigated the walking activity in relation to perceived barriers (PB) to walking of college students. A convenient sample of 75 participants (34 males, 41 females, mean age = 17.25 +/- 1.69) self-reported their walking activity for 7 days and answered a survey instrument examininig perceived barriers to walking. Participants averaged 4,607 steps/day described as sedentary level. Lack of time, foot pain and perspiring in nice clothing are the most perceived barriers, although footwear barriers were more evident among females. Males have a higher walking average as compared to females (5,151 vs. 4,162 steps, p-value = 0.000) and more females were sedentary than males (85.4% vs. 38.2%, p-value = 0.000). Lack of time (r = -0.295), foot pain (r = -0.292) and perspiring in nice clothing (r = -0.230) are significantly related to walking activity level. It is recommended that college students both male and female increase their walking activity in order to maintain a healthy and high-quality life. 
walking; barriers to walking; physical activity; college students; walking activity; step count