Explaining the Motivational Experience of Regular Exercise in Patients with Diabetes: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the motivational experience of regular exercise among patients with type 2 diabetes and to identify the facilitating and hindering factors using a qualitative approach. A qualitative study was conducted using thematic analysis. Sixteen patients with type 2 diabetes from Tehran were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews and continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data analysis followed Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis framework using NVivo version 12 software. Three main themes emerged: “intrinsic motivations for regular exercise,” “interpersonal facilitators of exercise,” and “motivational challenges and barriers.” Subthemes included physical enjoyment, psychological satisfaction, family support, physician recommendations, time constraints, emotional distress, and previous failure experiences. Participants perceived exercise as an effective way to improve physical and mental health, but sustaining this behavior was challenged by time limitations and physical discomfort. The findings reveal that motivation for exercise in diabetic patients is multidimensional and shaped by personal, social, and environmental factors. Understanding these experiences can inform the development of tailored interventions to promote self-care behaviors in diabetes management.