Research Article

EXPLORING THE REASONS FOR NOT PROLONGING GYM PARTICIPATION

Volume: 5 Number: 3 December 31, 2024
TR EN

EXPLORING THE REASONS FOR NOT PROLONGING GYM PARTICIPATION

Abstract

This study explores the factors that contribute to the discontinuation or lack of prolonged participation in gym activities in Pakistan, emphasizing how these barriers affect individuals’ ability to maintain regular physical activity. The aim is to identify and understand the barriers faced by gym-goers by applying Self-Determination Theory (SDT), which emphasizes the role of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in sustaining motivation. Employing a qualitative research design, the study conducted semi-structured interviews with 21 participants who had engaged in gym activities for a period ranging from one to six months. Data was analyzed using a two-level coding method, including open and axial coding, to identify key themes. The findings revealed six primary barriers: economic constraints, cultural and social norms, lack of facilities, time limitations, temporary commitments, and lack of motivation or visible results. These barriers undermine participants’ intrinsic motivation by limiting their autonomy, competence, and sense of relatedness. The findings highlight significant implications for society and gym management, emphasizing the need to address these barriers through inclusive, affordable, and culturally sensitive gym environments. By fostering autonomy, competence, and relatedness, gyms can play a pivotal role in promoting long-term engagement in fitness activities, contributing to improved public health and well-being.

Keywords

References

  1. Addolorato, S., & Gimeno, N. H. (2025). An analysis of active consumer behavior in a fitness boutique: satisfaction levels, perceived quality dimensions, and dropout reasons. Retos: nuevas tendencias en educación física, deporte y recreación(62), 362-373.
  2. Awruk, K., & Janowski, K. (2016). Motivation for physical activity and mental health indicators in male gym attendees. Physical Culture and Sport. Studies and Research, 69(1), 65-73.
  3. Azhar, N., Ahmer, Z., & Naqvi, U.-e.-R. (2022). The Frequency & Determinants of the Use of Nutritional Supplements and Hormones among Selected Gym Users in Karachi, Pakistan. Nurture, 16(1), 18-27. https://doi.org/10.55951/nurture.v16i1.105
  4. Beddoe, A., Hings, R., & Kerner, C. (2024). “It’s like feeling everyone will be looking at you, but in reality, no one cares.” A qualitative visual methods study exploring adolescent males’ relatedness in physical activity. Psychology of Men & Masculinities.
  5. Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2012). Thematic analysis. American Psychological Association.
  6. Brown, J., Washington, W. D., Stein, J. S., & Kaplan, B. A. (2022). The gym membership purchase task: Early evidence towards establishment of a novel hypothetical purchase task. The Psychological Record, 72(3), 371-381.
  7. Bukhsh, A., Goh, B.-H., Zimbudzi, E., Lo, C., Zoungas, S., Chan, K.-G., & Khan, T. M. (2020). Type 2 diabetes patients' perspectives, experiences, and barriers toward diabetes-related self-care: a qualitative study from Pakistan. Frontiers in endocrinology, 11, 534873.
  8. Burton, N. W., Barber, B. L., & Khan, A. (2021). A qualitative study of barriers and enablers of physical activity among female Emirati university students. International journal of environmental research and public health, 18(7), 3380.

Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Physical Training and Sports

Journal Section

Research Article

Authors

Syed Abdullah Shah
0009-0001-9666-130X
Pakistan

Early Pub Date

December 31, 2024

Publication Date

December 31, 2024

Submission Date

August 25, 2024

Acceptance Date

December 26, 2024

Published in Issue

Year 2024 Volume: 5 Number: 3

APA
Khalid, J., & Shah, S. A. (2024). EXPLORING THE REASONS FOR NOT PROLONGING GYM PARTICIPATION. Sivas Cumhuriyet Üniversitesi Spor Bilimleri Dergisi, 5(3), 27-36. https://izlik.org/JA33PS25NZ

s