Age and Gender Effects on Physical Activity in Greek Adults

Paraskevi Makavelou, Maria Michalopoulou, Stavroula Makavelou, Georgia Ifantidou, Thomas Kourtesis & Eleni Zetou

Department of Physical Education & Sport Science, Democritus University of Thrace, Komotini, Hellas

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to assess age and gender differences in adults’ physical activity. Addi- tionally age and gender effects on physical activity were assessed as part of work, transportation, recreation, housekeeping and caring for family as well as in relation to the intensity of physical activity (vigorous and intensity, moderate intensity activities and walking in comfortable pace). Subjects in this study were 150 male and 150 female Greek adults of age ranges 20–29, 30-39 and 40-50 years. Physical activity was assessed with the Long Seven Last Days Self –Administered, International Physical Activity Questionnaire (Craig et al., 2003). Women’s physical activity was significantly higher when compared to men’s (p<.001) and according to Bon- feroni post hoc test adults aged 20 - 29 years old were the least physically active participants. Differences concerning moderate intensity physical activity (p<.001) were in favor of women (p<.001). Age effects were also reported for moderate intensity physical activity (p<.001) and walking (p<.01). Adults aged 20-29 had the lowest score in moderate intensity physical activity and adults aged 30-39 years performed the lowest scores in physi- cal activity related to walking. Significant differences were noted for physical activity as part of housework/ caring for family and in physical activity related to transportation. Women aged 40-50 years were that most active group for housework/caring for family physical activity and men aged 30-39 were the least active group when physical activity related to transportation was concerned. Men when compared to women were significantly more physically active in their work (p<.001). The youngest adult group (20-29 years) was the least physically active group in the work context (p<.001) but the most active in physical activity for recreation (p<.001). In conclusion women were more active when compared to men and young adults aged 20-29 were the least active participants of this study.