Abstract

This paper analyses the relationship between multidimensional physical self-concept (physical ability, physical condition, physical attractiveness and strength) and the general concept with the barriers to physical practice, demonstrating the predictive power of the first variables of the scores given to obstacles to practicing physical activities. 1929 teenagers from Malaga (Spain), aged between 14 and 17 years (M = 15.62, SD = .96) participated in this research. The research follows a crossover design in which a survey collecting information on sex and age has been used for data collection. It also explores the physical self-concept through the Physical Self-Concept Questionnaire (CAF – Goñi, Ruiz de Azúa, & Rodríguez, 2006), and the reasons that may impede physical activity, thanks to Self-Report on Barriers to Physical Exercise (ABPEF – Niñerola, Capdevila, & Pintanel, 2006). The correlation and linear regression analysis showed significant associations between both variables and show the predictive ability that physical self-perception has on barriers to physical practice. The dimensions that best relate to those barriers to practice are physical ability and physical condition, as well as general measures in the CAF, general physical self-concept and general self-concept.