Publication:

Physical activity profile of children, men and women from urban low middle income families

Background Globally there had been a progressive reduction in moderate physical activity. Despite intensive behavioural change interventions, physical inactivity remains a major public health problem in all countries.

Methods A study was taken up in urban low-middle income families to obtain information on time spent and intensity of physical activity in different domains using 24-hour physical activity recall. Problems faced by persons trying to improve activity and their suggestions on how cope with existing constraints were ascertained.

Results Children spent 7-8 hours in school; men spent 8-9 working and women spent over 6 hours in household chores. All the family members spent 12-14 hours in sedentary activities. Nearly 80% of women in 19-49 years of age, had adequate physical activity (600 or more MET min/week); over 80% of men and nearly 2/3rd of the children was sedentary. Less than 20% of women and 10% of men beyond 50 years had adequate physical activity. Sedentary persons were unable to increase moderate physical activity by brisk walk because the roads were uneven, crowded and slippery. They did not have the space at home to undertake exercises.

Conclusions There is an urgent need to find out feasible methods to increase moderate physical activity within the existing constraints, so that sustained improvement in moderate physical activity can be achieved.