A comprehensive understanding of the barriers inhibiting physical activity among children is critical in the fight against childhood obesity. This qualitative interview study examined parents' and children's perceptions of the barriers to physical activity in rural communities of low socioeconomic status. Parents and children concurred that the absence of physical activity facilities contributed to inactivity among residents. This commonality aside, parents' perceptions of barriers were informed primarily by concerns about finances and safety, whereas children perceived academic and domestic responsibilities as hindrances to their physical activity. These findings have important implications for research and interventions aimed at promoting physical activity and decreasing obesity.