Physical Activity Self-reflections: A Year-Long Analysis of Barriers and Facilitators in a Diabetes Prevention...

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a public health issue. Diabetes prevention programs (DPPs) reduce T2D risk by encouraging changes in diet and physical activity (PA) behaviours; however, long-term PA adherence is challenging. Sustaining regular PA not only is crucial for reducing T2D risk but also plays an important role in maintaining weight loss achieved during DPPs, which further reinforces long-term metabolic health. This study examines the barriers to and facilitators of sustained PA after DPP participation and the role of self-reflection in promoting PA adherence.

We conducted a secondary analysis of 6,684 self-reflections collected via a mobile application from Small Steps for Big Changes DPP participants. Participants (n=86) logged daily PA and optionally recorded reflections on their exercise experiences for 1 year. Reflections were coded using the theoretical domains framework and classified by PA engagement (exercise/rest day/nonexercise day).

Participants engaged in PA on an average of 143 days, with higher self-reflection frequencies correlating with increased PA engagement (r₈₄=0.42, p=0.01). Self-monitoring appeared in 73% of reflections and remained present across the year. Facilitators were mentioned in 48% of reflections, peaking in the fourth quarter, whereas barriers (23%) declined over time. Commonly cited theoretical domains framework domains included behavioural regulation (75%) and environmental context and resources (68%).

Self-reflections were positively associated with PA engagement, with participants primarily focusing on tracking specific PA behaviours and environmental contexts. The integration of self-reflection and monitoring tools in DPPs could offer valuable support for behaviour change by enabling participants to be aware and to document and respond to real-time barriers and facilitators. Future DPPs may benefit from embedding flexible self-reflection tools that encourage sustained engagement and promote PA behaviour.