Dispositional optimism and pessimism in relation to physical activity and fitness in adulthood - a 15-year follow-up...

Dispositional optimism and pessimism have been linked to physical activity (PA) in adulthood, but longitudinal associations and relationships with physical fitness (PF) remain underexplored. We investigated whether optimism and pessimism are a) longitudinally associated with self-reported leisure-time physical activity (LTPA), b) cross-sectionally associated with device-measured PA and c) cross-sectionally and longitudinally associated with clinically measured PF. Additionally, potential bidirectional associations were explored.

A 15-year follow-up data (from age 31 to 46) was analysed from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 study (N = 7,146). Optimism and pessimism were assessed with the Life Orientation Test-Revised. Self-reported LTPA was measured with questionnaires at both time points. Device-measured PA was assessed with accelerometers at age 46. PF was measured clinically by cardiorespiratory fitness, hand-grip strength and trunk muscle endurance at both time points.

Higher optimism and lower pessimism predicted higher volumes of LTPA over 15 years. Additionally, higher LTPA predicted lower pessimism. Optimism, but not pessimism, was cross-sectionally associated with device-measured PA at age 46. Regarding PF, cross-sectional associations were observed with handgrip strength and trunk muscle endurance.

Higher optimism and lower pessimism promote PA in adulthood, while PA may reduce pessimism. Cross-sectional associations with muscular fitness were detected.