Physical activity levels according to physical and social environmental factors in a sample of adults living in South Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between the physical and social environment and physical activity (leisure-time and transport-related) in a population-based sample of adults.

METHODS: Cross-sectional study including 972 adults (20-69 years) living in the urban area of Pelotas, Brazil. Physical activity was measured using the long International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Environmental variables were assessed using a modified version of the Neighborhood Environment Walkability Scale.

RESULTS: 69.8% (95% CI = 66.9-72.7) and 51.9% (95% CI = 48.8-55.1) of the subjects did not reach 150 min/wk on leisure-time and transport-related physical activity, respectively. Subjects living near green areas were more likely to be active in leisure-time, as well as those who reported to live in safe neighborhoods. Transport-related physical activity was higher among individuals living in areas with garbage accumulation, and was lower among those living in neighborhoods which are difficult to walk or cycle due to traffic. Social support was strongly associated with leisure-time physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS: Safety investments, which are urgently required in Brazil, are likely to have a desirable side effect at increasing physical activity at the population level. Building enjoyable and safe public spaces for physical activity practice must be prioritized.