Physical activity patterns and body mass index scores among military service members.
Questionnaires on exercise practices, reasons for exercising, factors that would increase exercise, and demographics were mailed to a stratified random sample of 19,510 active duty personnel in all of the United States military services who were stationed at 38 large military installations and a number of remote locations. Responses were returned by 8,572 (55%). Approximately 63% exercised three times a week for 15-20 minutes, and 15% did not exercise at all. Mean BMI was 25.2. The top five reasons for exercising were to improve physical conditioning, have fun, manage weight, improve appearance and manage stress.
Harrison
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Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Marywood University, 2300 Adams Avenue, Scranton, PA 18509, USA.
Brennan
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MA
Levine
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AM
D015992:Body Mass Index; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008889:Military Personnel / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D009042:Motivation; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D014481:United States