Habitual physical activity and its determinants–experiences from the perspective of children using wheelchairs

Seemüller S, Beck F, Bükers F, Krieger C, Reimers AK (2025)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2025

Journal

International Journal of Adolescence and Youth A B Academic Publishers

Book Volume: 30

Article Number: 2543012

Journal Issue: 1

DOI: 10.1080/02673843.2025.2543012

Abstract

Physical activity (PA) has numerous health benefits for children using wheelchairs. Therefore, this qualitative study aimed to get a comprehensive overview of their PA behaviour and its determinants. Seven boys and five girls aged 7–11 years participated in semi-structured interviews, exploring type, duration, setting and intensity of weekly PA. Using a qualitative content analysis determinants and participants’ PA were identified and categorized into organized and unorganized settings based on a socioecological model (SEM). Main Barriers included inadequate physical environments, acceptance from peers and insufficient competence of teachers and coaches. Public places and schools need to be more accessible and should increase offers of inclusive sports programmes. The study provides novel insights into PA patterns and influencing factors and highlights the need for more supportive and inclusive environments. Future research should further explore therapy as an additional source of PA.

Authors with CRIS profile

Selina Seemüller Lehrstuhl für Sportwissenschaft mit der Ausrichtung Gesundheitsförderung/Public Health/Sozialwissenschaften des Sports Franziska Beck Lehrstuhl für Sportwissenschaft mit der Ausrichtung Gesundheitsförderung/Public Health/Sozialwissenschaften des Sports

Involved external institutions

Universität Hamburg (UHH) DE Germany (DE)

How to cite

APA:

Seemüller, S., Beck, F., Bükers, F., Krieger, C., & Reimers, A.K. (2025). Habitual physical activity and its determinants–experiences from the perspective of children using wheelchairs. International Journal of Adolescence and Youth, 30(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/02673843.2025.2543012

MLA:

Seemüller, Selina, et al. "Habitual physical activity and its determinants–experiences from the perspective of children using wheelchairs." International Journal of Adolescence and Youth 30.1 (2025).

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