Preferred physical activity among Setswana-speaking community-dwelling adults in Potchefstroom

Abstract

Promoting physical activity (PA) in a population by means of enjoyable activities may serve as motivation for long-term participation in PA and improve health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine the most preferred type of PA among adults in a Setswana-speaking community from a low socio-economic district of Potchefstroom for future implementation of PA interventions. A sample of 130 people (men: n=50, 38.5%; women: n=80, 61.5%) aged 35 to 65 years (45.8±9.0) agreed to participate in the study. Frequency analyses and chi-square tests were performed to determine the most preferred type and time of PA. Regression analyses were performed to determine the association between preferred type of PA and demographic variables. Most participants (87.7%) reported regular participation in PA. Walking (39.2%) was the most preferred type of PA, followed by domestic duties (13.8%). Exercising before 12am was preferred by 70% of the participants. Age and marital status were the variables most closely associated with PA participation. Weight-bearing activities, such as walking and activities of daily living, such as domestic chores, are recommended for future exercise interventions directed to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases.

Keywords: Physical activity; Preference; PA intervention; Quality of life; NCDs; Setswana; Adults