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[Are young Norwegian women sufficiently physically active?]
Olov Belander1, Monica Klungland Torstveit, Jorunn Sundgot-Borgen
1Seksjon for idrettsmedisin, Norges idrettshøgskole, Postboks 806 Ullevål Stadion, 0863 Oslo. olov.belander@nasjonalforeningen.no
Summary
Physical activity declines with age in Norwegian women. Half of adolescent girls and 40% of young women do not meet recommended physical activity levels, highlighting a public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Exercise Science
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Physical activity levels in Norwegian girls and young women were previously unknown.
- Understanding activity patterns is crucial for public health initiatives.
Purpose:
- To assess physical activity levels in Norwegian women aged 13-39.
- To compare these levels against national physical activity recommendations.
Summary:
- A survey using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) included 549 women (aged 13-39).
- Physical activity and exercise intensity decreased with age.
- 52% of adolescents (13-19) met daily recommendations; 63% of women (20-39) were active weekly.
- Meeting recommendations varied by age bracket: 72% (20-29) and 57% (30-39).
Impact:
- Findings indicate that a significant proportion of adolescent girls and young women in Norway are not meeting physical activity guidelines.
- This data can inform targeted interventions to promote physical activity in these demographics.
- Highlights a need for age-specific strategies to encourage lifelong physical activity.