[Classification of physical activity and health related variables in men]

In this study, the relationship of physical activity with aerobic capacity and health checkup results were examined among 288 men aged 45.7 (mean) +/- 8.13 (SD) years. Physical activity was evaluated from a 3-day activity record and expressed as metabolic-equivalent (MET) (/day). Total caloric intake was evaluated from a 3-day dietary record. VO2 max was measured as the index of aerobic capacity, and body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (WHR), % fat, and increase in body weight from 20 years old were used as indices of body composition.

In multiple regression analysis, MET value, % fat, WHR and increase in body weight from 20 years old were independently and significantly associated with VO2 max. As MET value was a significant predictor, it may be important to evaluate physical activity not only during leisure time, but also throughout the whole day. In addition, preventing total body fat and abdominal fat increase seemed important to maintain and to increase aerobic capacity. To grasp the pattern of physical activity more precisely, subjects were classified into 6 groups (A: sedentary, B: sedentary + walking, C: sedentary + brisk walking, D: sedentary + exercise, E: active, F: active + exercise), and each variable was compared using one-way analysis of variance and post-hock test analysis (Tukey method). MET value increased in the order of groups A, D, E and F. Groups D and E showed no significant difference in the VO2 max and MET value, while both groups showed significantly higher values than those of group A. Therefore, aerobic capacity differed not only according to the presence of habitual exercise, but also according to whether the subjects had an active daily life. When sedentary, it seemed important to be active for about 1-hour/day. Regarding body fat, group F showed the lowest value in each variable. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and blood triglyceride levels were highest in group A and lowest in group F, suggesting the effects of an active daily life and habitual exercise. In group A, the total caloric intake was also highest. Therefore, improving the total lifestyle, including diet, was also considered necessary.

Classification of subjects according to their pattern of physical activity may be useful in health education settings to increase physical activity and to prevent life-style-related diseases.