Intersectionality and Physical Activity Participation in Aotearoa, New Zealand: A Cross-Sectional Analysis Using...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Kinesiology

Background:

• Physical activity participation varies significantly across diverse demographic groups.
• Understanding how intersecting sociodemographic factors influence guideline adherence is crucial, especially in New Zealand.
• This study investigates characteristics most associated with reduced odds of meeting physical activity guidelines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the type and number of sociodemographic characteristics linked to lower odds of meeting physical activity guidelines.
• To identify specific demographic groups facing greater barriers to physical activity in New Zealand.
• To inform the development of targeted physical activity interventions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the Active New Zealand 2023 adult and young people surveys.
• Examined sociodemographic characteristics including age, gender, ethnicity, deprivation, and disability.
• Employed multivariable logistic regression to analyze associations between demographics and meeting physical activity guidelines.

Main Results:

• Young people identifying as Asian had significantly lower odds of meeting guidelines (OR = 0.48).
• Adults with a disability showed reduced odds of meeting guidelines (OR = 0.51).
• Increased number of demographic characteristics consistently lowered the odds of meeting physical activity guidelines for both age groups.

Conclusions:

• Findings underscore the importance of considering the intersectionality of sociodemographic factors in physical activity.
• Future physical activity programs require tailored approaches that acknowledge combined characteristics.
• Interventions should aim to mitigate barriers faced by individuals with multiple disadvantageous characteristics.