Motivation plays an important role in the field of medicine, as it significantly influences behavior change, such as becoming more physically active. This study aimed to investigate the role of motivation in engagement in a physical activity and its impact on quality of life for adolescents suffering from obesity. We assessed the time dedicated to physical activities, the type of motivation, and the relationship between those factors and their quality of life. Seventy-two adolescents aged 12-18 years (51% girls) participated in the study. Fifteen percent of the sample (11/72) were overweight, 56% (n = 40) were affected by obesity and 29% (n = 21) by severe obesity. We found that adolescents were mostly driven to engage in physical activity by self-determined motivation, but those affected by severe obesity were more motivated by external factors. Moreover, there was a disparity in physical activity engagement between genders, with boys being more active than girls. Finally, our data demonstrated that physical exercise contributed to improving quality of life of our population. This study demonstrates that self-determined motivation plays a significant role in promoting physical activity among adolescents with overweight or obesity, with notable differences between genders. Encouraging intrinsic motivation can improve physical functioning and quality of life.

Plain language summary

Motivation is a key factor in encouraging healthy behaviors, like being physically active. This study looked at how motivation influences physical activity and quality of life in adolescents with overweight or obesity. Researchers wanted to understand how much time these adolescents spend being active, what motivates them, and how this affects their well-being. The study included 72 adolescents with overweight or obesity aged 12 to 18. The study found that most adolescents were motivated to exercise by internal reasons (like personal goals or enjoyment). However, those with severe obesity were more influenced by external factors (like pressure from others). Boys were generally more physically active than girls. The study highlights the importance of encouraging self-motivation in adolescents with obesity. Helping them find personal reasons to stay active—rather than relying on external pressure—can lead to better physical health and an improved quality of life. Programs that support self-motivation, especially for girls and those with severe obesity, may be particularly beneficial.