The Associations Between Physical Activity, Body Perception, and Self-Rated Health in Korean Adults: An Analysis of...

Background and Objectives: This study examined associations between physical activity, body perception, and self-rated health (SRH) in a nationally representative sample of Korean adults. Materials and Methods: This study analyzed data from the 2023 Korea Community Health Survey (n = 228,249 adults aged ≥19). Variables included Body Mass Index (BMI), body perception, and participation in walking and stretching. Complex sample t-tests and one-way ANOVA were used to examine group differences in BMI, body perception, and self-rated health (SRH). Comparisons were made across gender, age groups, residential environment (metropolitan vs. non-metropolitan), and household size. Results: Mean BMI was highest in individuals in their 30s and was lowest in those aged 80 and above (p < 0.001). Females reported lower BMIs and more positive SRH than males (p < 0.001). Metropolitan residents and individuals in larger households showed higher physical activity rates and more favorable SRH (p < 0.001). SRH and physical activity declined with age, while exercise participation was higher among individuals with higher BMI or self-perceived overweight status (p < 0.001). Although the direction of this association should be interpreted with caution. Conclusions: Age, gender, residence, and household composition significantly influenced physical activity and SRH. These findings highlight the need to prioritize interventions for older adults, single-person households, and non-metropolitan populations.