Relevance and Aim: There has been increasing research interest in sport preferences and motivational factors as well as barriers that restrain from engaging in sport activities in people suffering from mental illnesses. Anxiety disorders are one of the leading mental disorders worldwide. Exercise has previously shown anxiolytic effects and is discussed as an adjunctive treatment option in clinical practice. This study aims to depict motivation and barriers in patients with anxiety or posttraumatic stress disorders.

Design and Participants: Observational study of patients diagnosed with anxiety disorder or posttraumatic stress disorder (ICD-10)

Measurements: Structured questionnaire compounded of validated scales for current physical activity, sport motivation, exercise preferences, perceived barriers , self-efficacy, social support for physical activity, motivation,enjoyment, quality of life as well as sociodemographic data.

Duration: The questionnaire will require approximately 20 minutes, the overall duration is 3 months. Personal assistance for completing the questionnaire will be provided if necessary.

Inclusion Criteria:

• In- and out-patients with a diagnosed anxiety or posttraumatic stress disorder (F40, F41, F43.1; ICD-10)
• 18 to 65 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• acute psychosis or suicidal behaviour
• cognitive deficits
• problems with German language

Patients of outpatient department and inpatients of the Medical Hospital Innsbruck, Department of Psychiatry and Psychosomatic will be selected by clinical professionals according to inclusion and exclusion criteria.