Physical activity promotion by GPs: a cross-sectional survey in England

Background: Physical activity (PA) contributes to the prevention and management of many health conditions. Primary care practitioners have an important role to play in supporting people to be physically active.

Aim: This study had the following three aims: 1) to explore GPs' awareness and knowledge of the PA guidelines; 2) to assess GPs' confidence in promoting PA; and 3) to explore factors that influence PA promotion among GPs.

Design & setting: Cross-sectional survey, using secondary analysis.

Method: UK-based GPs were invited to take part in an online survey in January 2021. Demographic questions were followed by nine multiple choice questions. Categorical data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and open-ended data were analysed using content analysis and inductive coding.

Results: In total, 839 GPs based in England completed the survey. Most GP responders (98.9%) believed that PA was important, yet only 35.7% reported being at least 'somewhat familiar' with current PA guidance. Despite this, 74.1% of GPs reported feeling confident raising the topic of PA with their patients. Barriers included lack of time, perceptions of patient attitude and risk, language issues, and COVID-19. Key facilitators were identified and 'Couch to 5k' and the 'parkrun practice' initiatives were the most widely used support tools.

Conclusion: GPs value PA yet well-known barriers exist to embedding promotion into primary care. As primary care reconfigures, there is an opportunity to embed PA into systems, services, and processes.