Objectives: This study describes the patterns of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and assesses its association with health behaviors, health status and health-related quality of life. Methods: Data came from the 2001 National Health Interview Survey of Taiwan. A total of 7978 males and 8154 females completed the exercise questionnaire. ”Regularly exerciser” was defined as one who exercised ≥5 times a week and accumulating ≥150 minutes in moderate intensity or ≥3 times a week for ≥20 minutes per time in vigorous intensity. Results: About 21% of respondents reported as regular exercisers, while 50% reported no exercise during their leisure time. Walking was the most popular activity reported. In a multivariate logistic model, age, education status, fruit and vegetable consumption, chronic disease status, and difficulty in activities of daily living (ADL) were statistically significant correlates of exercise behavior. Analyses of the SF-36 dimensions showed that adults who exercised regularly also had significantly better scores than those who did not exercise (p<0.001) in self-perceived physical function, role limitations due to physical problems, pain, general health, vitality, and mental health. Conclusions: Eight out of ten adults in Taiwan do not meet the CDC/ACSM recommendation for LTPA. Prevalence in LTPA was lowest among those 25-44 years of age, with less than middle school education, with restricted ADL, smoking or obese males, and underweight females.
Objectives: This study describes the patterns of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and assesses its association with health behaviors, health status and health-related quality of life. Methods: Data came from the 2001 National Health Interview Survey of Taiwan. A total of 7978 males and 8154 females completed the exercise questionnaire. ”Regularly exerciser” was defined as one who exercised ≥5 times a week and accumulating ≥150 minutes in moderate intensity or ≥3 times a week for ≥20 minutes per time in vigorous intensity. Results: About 21% of respondents reported as regular exercisers, while 50% reported no exercise during their leisure time. Walking was the most popular activity reported. In a multivariate logistic model, age, education status, fruit and vegetable consumption, chronic disease status, and difficulty in activities of daily living (ADL) were statistically significant correlates of exercise behavior. Analyses of the SF-36 dimensions showed that adults who exercised regularly also had significantly better scores than those who did not exercise (p<0.001) in self-perceived physical function, role limitations due to physical problems, pain, general health, vitality, and mental health. Conclusions: Eight out of ten adults in Taiwan do not meet the CDC/ACSM recommendation for LTPA. Prevalence in LTPA was lowest among those 25-44 years of age, with less than middle school education, with restricted ADL, smoking or obese males, and underweight females.