[ENCOPREVENIMSS 2004. 6. Men and women's pattern of physical activity]

to determine the prevalence of physical activity in population from 20 to 59 years old covered by the Mexican Institute of Social Security.

the prevalence of physical activity was estimated, classifying it according to its intensity, frequency and duration. Recommended physical activity was considered when moderate activity was done at least five days a week, for 30 minutes, or when vigorous activity was done three days a week, for 20 minutes. Insufficient activity was that with lower frequency or duration than recommended, and inactivity, when no activity was done.

the sample included 30,270 women and 25,237 men. The global prevalence of recommended physical activity was 17.7%; the one of insufficient physical activity, 65.5%, and the one of physical inactivity, 16.8%. The prevalence of physical inactivity in men and women was 13.8 and 19.4%, respectively. The most frequently reported activities in men and women with recommended or insufficient activity levels were walking (44.3%), running or jogging (34.2%) and soccer (10%). Women and men who watched television very often had a prevalence of physical inactivity of 30.9 and 20.5%, respectively.

the prevalence of recommended physical activity is low and that of inactivity is high. Some measures of intervention are needed in order to promote physical activity in adults.