Analysis of Correlates of Physical Activity in Middle-Aged or Elderly Women

The purpose of this study was to analyze the regular physical activity participation, obesity level, and physical fitness level among middle-aged or elderly women, and to analyze the correlates of physical activity. A total of 155 middle-aged or elderly women (City area, N=91; Rural area, N=64) were recruited. The total physical activity participation was measured using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaires(GPAQ), and demographic variables and physical environmental factors were surveyed. In addition, obesity and physical fitness level were measured. The obesity level of the study participants was overweight based on the body mass index, and obese based on the body fat percentage and waist circumference. The statistically significant difference between the city area and rural area was found in walking activity, and there were no statistically significant differences in the amount of physical activity, physical fitness level, or obesity level. There was a statistically significant correlation between exercise equipments and facilities and the total physical activity participation time, walking activity, and the number of sports types participated in. Exercise equipments were found to be a significant correlated factor of walking activity. This study proposes a meaningful analysis of correlates for policies to promote physical activity among middle-aged or elderly women in a super-aging society.