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Physical Activity Levels (PAL) in US Adults-2019
Charles E Matthews1, Shreya Patel1, Pedro F Saint-Maurice1
1Metabolic Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|February 2, 2023
Summary
US adults have a mean physical activity level (PAL) of 1.63, with lower levels observed in women and older adults. Understanding PAL is crucial for public health and obesity prevention.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Physical activity levels (PAL) are linked to mortality and national energy needs.
- Population-based estimates of PAL in US adults are lacking.
- Understanding sedentary and active behaviors is vital for public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate physical activity levels (PAL) in a nationwide sample of US adults.
- To identify behavioral determinants associated with low and higher PAL.
- To provide data for public health messages and obesity prevention efforts.
Main Methods:
- A nationwide survey of 2640 US adults aged 20-75 years was conducted.
- Physical activity levels (PAL) were estimated using a validated previous-day recall method (Activities Completed over Time in 24-hours).
- Data were collected in October-November 2019, with survey weights applied to represent the US population.
Main Results:
- The mean PAL for US adults was 1.63 (95% CI, 1.60-1.65).
- 39% of adults reported a PAL of 1.6 or higher on a given day.
- Men reported higher PAL than women (1.67 vs 1.59), and older adults reported lower PAL. Adults with low PAL (<1.4) spent 81% of waking hours sedentary, while those with active PAL (1.6-1.89) spent 49% sedentary.
Conclusions:
- This study provides novel population-based estimates of PAL in US adults.
- Findings describe the type and intensity of behaviors contributing to varying PAL.
- Results can inform public health initiatives to increase physical activity and aid obesity prevention.
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