A perceived 'lack of time' is consistently the most commonly reported barrier to exercise. However, the term fails to capture the multifaceted nature of time-related factors. Recognising the need for a more comprehensive analysis of 'lack of time' as a barrier to exercise, the aim of this study was to develop the exercise participation explained in relation to time (EXPERT) model. The model was developed through a sequential process including (1) an umbrella literature review of time as a barrier, determinant, and correlate of physical activity; (2) a targeted review of existing temporal models; (3) drafting the model and refining it via discussions between eight authors; (4) a three-round Delphi process with eight panel members; and (5) consultations with seven experts and potential end-users. The final EXPERT model includes 31 factors within four categories: (1) temporal needs and preferences for exercise (ie, when and how long does an individual need/want to exercise), (2) temporal autonomy for exercise (ie, autonomy in scheduling free time for exercise), (3) temporal conditions for exercise (ie, available time for exercise) and (4) temporal dimensions of exercise (ie, use of time for exercise). Definitions, examples and possible survey questions are presented for each factor. The EXPERT model provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the multi-dimensional nature of 'time' as it relates to exercise participation. It moves beyond the simplistic notion of 'lack of time' and delves into the complexity of time allocation in the context of exercise. Empirical and cross-cultural validations of the model are warranted.

Alliance for Research in Exercise Nutrition and Activity University of South Australia Adelaide South Australia Australia

Andrej Marušič Institute Department of Health Studies University of Primorska Koper Slovenia

Brussels Institute for Social and Population Studies Research Unit TOR Vrije Universiteit Brussel Brussel Belgium

Centre for Health Research University of Southern Queensland Springfield Queensland Australia

Department of Health Behavior and Nutrition Sciences and Department of Epidemiology University of Delaware Newark Delaware USA

Department of Human Nutrition Foods and Exercise Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg Virginia USA

Department of UrbanStudies and Tourism Université du Québec à Montréal Montréal Quebec Canada

Faculty of Kinesiology University of Zagreb Zagreb Croatia

Faculty of Physical Culture Palacký University Olomouc Olomouc Czech Republic

InnoRenew CoE Izola Slovenia

Institute of Health and Sport Victoria University Footscray Victoria Australia

International Sport and Culture Association Copenhagen Denmark

Physical Activity for Health Research Centre Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences University of Limerick Faculty of Education and Health Sciences Limerick Ireland

Physical Activity for Health Research Centre Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences University of Limerick Limerick Ireland

Physical Activity for Health Research Centre Health Research Institute and Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences University of Limerick Limerick Ireland

Prevention Research Collaboration Sydney School of Public Health University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia

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