L Sörensen1. 1. Peurunka--Medical Rehabilitation Center, Peurungantie 85, FIN-41340 Laukaa, Finland. lars.sorensen@fimnet.fi
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Few studies exist on adherence to exercise within specific occupational groups. AIMS: This study aimed at identifying factors explaining leisure-time physical activity among middle-aged Finnish police officers. METHODS: Middle-aged police officers (n = 103) participated in the study in 1981 and 1996. Frequency of and adherence to leisure-time physical activity and fitness were assessed. RESULTS: The factor 'enjoyment' was the most powerful determinant for both physical activity and fitness, but all the factors studied accounted for only 10% of the variability. Leisure-time physical activity in 1981 correlated significantly with leisure-time physical activity in 1996. CONCLUSIONS: The physical activity of the middle-aged police officers can be in part predicted from their physical activity in early adulthood. Enjoyment related to physical activity seems to be important with respect to enhancing adherence. Perhaps, being fit increases the feeling of enjoyment during exercise.
BACKGROUND: Few studies exist on adherence to exercise within specific occupational groups. AIMS: This study aimed at identifying factors explaining leisure-time physical activity among middle-aged Finnish police officers. METHODS: Middle-aged police officers (n = 103) participated in the study in 1981 and 1996. Frequency of and adherence to leisure-time physical activity and fitness were assessed. RESULTS: The factor 'enjoyment' was the most powerful determinant for both physical activity and fitness, but all the factors studied accounted for only 10% of the variability. Leisure-time physical activity in 1981 correlated significantly with leisure-time physical activity in 1996. CONCLUSIONS: The physical activity of the middle-aged police officers can be in part predicted from their physical activity in early adulthood. Enjoyment related to physical activity seems to be important with respect to enhancing adherence. Perhaps, being fit increases the feeling of enjoyment during exercise.
Authors: Eddie T C Lam; Kenneth Sparks; Michele A Barton-Verdi; Allison Lowe; Davon Jones; Edmond C Lam Journal: J Exerc Sci Fit Date: 2016-04-23 Impact factor: 3.103