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Correlates of Parental Physical Activity: A Quantitative Systematic Review
Kathryn R Hesketh1,2, Andrea D Smith1, Yuval Amichay3
1University of Cambridge (MRC Epidemiology Unit), Cambridge, United Kingdom.
Journal of Physical Activity & Health
|January 22, 2026
Summary
Parental physical activity (PA) is influenced by family factors like partner and child activity. Understanding these correlates can encourage more families to be active.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
- Sociology
Background:
- Many adults, especially mothers, do not meet physical activity (PA) guidelines.
- Parents often engage in less PA compared to childless individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors associated with parental physical activity (PA).
- To stratify findings based on self-report and device-based PA measures.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of quantitative studies (cross-sectional and longitudinal) was conducted.
- Studies were identified across four major databases up to October 2024.
- Correlates were analyzed using the socioecological model.
Main Results:
- Partner's PA, child's PA, pet ownership, and environmental aesthetics positively correlated with parental PA.
- Car ownership showed a negative association with parental PA.
- COVID-19 restrictions were negatively associated with parental PA.
Conclusions:
- Family-based factors appear to promote parental PA and family-wide activity.
- Further research is needed on fathers and populations in low- and middle-income countries.
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