John is most likely experiencing the common barrier to physical fitness known as "participation cost." This is evident because his family is facing financial challenges due to his mother's illness, resulting in substantial medical bills and home repairs. These financial burdens could make it difficult for John to afford the costs associated with participating in football, such as equipment, registration fees, and other expenses.
Furthermore, the situation described indicates that John's family is currently prioritizing essential needs like healthcare and home repairs over extracurricular activities like football, which suggests that financial constraints are a significant factor affecting his ability to participate in the sport.
By identifying participation cost as the likely barrier in this scenario, we understand that financial limitations can hinder individuals from engaging in physical activities or sports due to the associated expenses involved. It highlights the importance of addressing economic challenges to promote equal access to physical fitness opportunities for everyone.