Gender differences in physical activity are partially explained by anxiety sensitivity in post-secondary students

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Public Health
• Sports Science

Background:

• Female post-secondary students exhibit lower physical activity levels compared to males.
• Women report higher anxiety sensitivity, a fear of arousal-based bodily sensations.
• Anxiety sensitivity is inversely correlated with physical activity engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if anxiety sensitivity mediates the observed gender differences in self-reported physical activity among post-secondary students.
• To explore the role of fear of bodily sensations in explaining disparities in physical activity between genders.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 802 post-secondary students completed the Anxiety Sensitivity Index-3 and a Lifestyles Questionnaire.
• Data were collected in September 2017.
• Statistical analysis was performed to examine mediation effects.

Main Results:

• Women reported significantly lower physical activity levels and higher anxiety sensitivity than men.
• A significant inverse relationship was found between anxiety sensitivity and self-reported physical activity.
• Anxiety sensitivity significantly mediated the effect of gender on physical activity (B = 5.56, p < .05).

Conclusions:

• Anxiety sensitivity partially accounts for the gender disparity in physical activity participation.
• Interventions aimed at reducing anxiety sensitivity may enhance physical activity engagement in women.
• Addressing anxiety sensitivity could be a strategy to reduce the physical activity gender gap in higher education settings.