Intensity-specific leisure-time physical activity and the built environment among Brazilian adults: a best-fit model.
BACKGROUND
There is little understanding about which sets of environmental features could simultaneously predict intensity-specific leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) among Brazilians. The objectives were to identify the environmental correlates for intensity-specific LTPA, and to build the best-fit linear models to predict intensity-specific LTPA among adults of Curitiba, Brazil.


METHODS
Cross sectional study in Curitiba, Brazil (2009, n = 1461). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire and Abbreviated Neighborhood Environment Assessment Scale were used. Ninety-two perceived environment variables were categorized in 10 domains. LTPA was classified as walking for leisure (LWLK), moderate-intensity leisure-time PA (MLPA), vigorous-intensity leisure-time PA (VLPA), and moderate-to-vigorous intensity leisure-time PA (MVLPA). Best fitting linear predictive models were built.


RESULTS
Forty environmental variables were correlated to at least 1 LTPA outcome. The variability explained by the 4 best-fit models ranged from 17% (MLPA) to 46% (MVLPA). All models contained recreation areas and aesthetics variables; none included residential density predictors. At least 1 neighborhood satisfaction variable was present in each of the intensity-specific models, but not for overall MVLPA.


CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates the simultaneous effect of sets of perceived environmental features on intensity-specific LTPA among Brazilian adults. The differences found compared with high-income countries suggest caution in generalizing results across settings.
Nutrition and Health Sciences Program, Graduate Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA.
Deborah
D
Salvo
Rodrigo S
RS
Reis
Adriano A F
AA
Hino
Pedro C
PC
Hallal
Michael
M
Pratt
D000328:Adult; D001938:Brazil; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004777:Environment; D004779:Environment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007899:Leisure Activities; D016014:Linear Models; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009043:Motor Activity; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D011998:Recreation; D012111:Residence Characteristics; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016138:Walking