Perception and Practice of Night-Time Exercise among Adults in Kinta District, Malaysia

Background: Night-time exercise is increasing due to lifestyle changes and the availability of 24-hour fitness facilities. However, such nighttime practice has its own perceived benefits and potential risks which remain poorly understood, particularly in Malaysia. This study assessed the perception and practice of night-time exercise among adults in the Kinta District. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults aged 19 to 49 years. Data were collected using a self-developed structured questionnaire that underwent expert content validation, and a pilot test (n=30) was conducted to ensure clarity. The study was carried out over six weeks that were divided between modules i.e. the first two weeks from (30/9/2024–14/10/2024) and the next four weeks from (21/4/2025–16/5/2025). Convenience sampling was used where a minimum sample size of 384 was calculated using OpenEpi with 50% anticipated frequency and 95% confidence level. Associations between sociodemographic factors, perceptions, and practices were analysed using Chi-square and ANOVA. Results: Most respondents had positive (57.4%) perceptions of night-time exercise. Moderate physical activity was the most common practice (76.9%) and there were significant associations found between perception and actual practice (p < 0.001), gender and activity level (p = 0.0076), marital status and activity level (p = 0.006), and occupation and activity level (p = 0.004). No significance was observed between age and activity level. Conclusion: Adults in Kinta District usually perceive night-time exercise positively and engage primarily in moderate-intensity activity. Perceptions strongly influenced their actual behaviour. These findings highlight the need for targeted health promotion strategies, for groups with negative perceptions. Future research should validate the measurement tools and explore causal relationships using longitudinal designs.