Age-related differences in physical activity profiles of English adults

Describe the proportion of total moderate or vigorous physical activity (MVPA) time that is represented by specific types of physical activity among active adults.

We analyzed data from 4750 adult participants in the 2008 Health Survey for England who reported ≥30 min of MVPA on ≥5 days per week. The proportion of their MVPA time spent in: occupational, domestic, walking, exercise and fitness, team sports, non-team sports, outdoor pursuit, and leisure pursuit activities were calculated and averaged across 6 age categories.

Exercise and fitness activities make up a greater proportion of total MVPA for young adults (16-24 years: men=27%; women=21%) than old adults (65+ years: 12%; 11%); the same is true for Team sports (16-24 years: 12%, 2%; 65+ years: 0%, 0%). Domestic activities make up a greater proportion of total MVPA time among older men and women (16-24 years: 9%, 16%; 65+ years: 34%, 38%). Walking is one of the most important contributors to total MVPA across all age groups for both sexes (range all ages: 26-42%, 37-45%).

The physical activity profile of physically active English adults varies with age. Age-specific interventions to increase physical activity among adults may be needed.