Leisure-time physical activities among adults in Florianopolis, state of Santa Catarina, Brazil: a population-based study on the characteristics of the practices and the practitioners

The study established characteristics of practices and practitioners of leisure-time physical activities among adults in Florianopolis, Brazil. It was a population-based, cross-sectional survey conducted between September 2009 and January 2010. Leisure-time physical activity was assessed using a validated questionnaire. Walking and weight lifting were the most frequently reported activities. Vigorous physical activities were more frequent among men and young adults. There were no gender or age differences in relation to the frequency and duration of physical activities. Walking and gymnastics were more frequently practiced by women, and jogging and soccer by men. Age was positively associated with walking, and negatively with soccer and weight lifting. Caucasian and black males practiced gymnastics and soccer more frequently. Adults living with a partner practiced more walking and soccer, and less weight lifting. Educational level was directly associated with jogging and gymnastics, but inversely with soccer. Income was inversely associated with soccer and directly associated with weight lifting. Policies to promote physical activity should consider the different interests of the population to stimulate the scope of their practice in leisure-time.