Seasonality of physical activity and its association with socioeconomic and health factors among urban-dwelling adults of Kaunas, Lithuania.

BACKGROUND

Physical activity (PA) has been declining dramatically over time in many countries worldwide. The decrease of PA levels affects a person's health and quality of life as it is a significant risk factor for many noncommunicable diseases. Understanding the factors that determine PA is particularly important in promoting greater PA in adults and reducing the risk of diseases associated with physical inactivity. This study investigated associations of seasonal PA levels with socioeconomic and health factors among adults.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study included 1111 participants of Kaunas city, Lithuania who completed a questionnaire about PA and mobility behaviour, socioeconomic, health and demographic factors. Commuting PA and sufficient PA (sPA) on weekdays and weekends in the summer and winter seasons was investigated in this study. Data on daily commuting duration and forms of transportation were collected using a questionnaire survey. Daily commuting was categorized into two categories: 1) using motorized transportation or walking or cycling 0 to 29 min, 2) and walking or cycling for 30 min or more.

RESULTS

Our findings showed significant seasonal impact on PA levels. The results revealed that employment status was significantly associated with PA. Unemployed individuals were 2 times more likely to engage in sPA in winter and almost 3 times in summer compared to workers.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest the importance of considering environmental, socioeconomic and health factors when assessing PA. Promoting PA through active commuting is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and strategies to support the implementation of health-promoting policies and practices are needed.