The Determinants of Participation in Physical Activity in Malaysia

OBJECTIVES In light of the importance of physical activity, the aim of the present study is to examine the factors affecting participation in physical activity among adults in Malaysia. METHODS A logistic regression model and the Third National Health and Morbidity Survey consisting of 30,992 respondents were used. RESULTS Age, income, gender, education, marital status, region, house locality, job characteristics, and medical conditions are significantly associated with participation in physical activity. In particular, old individuals, high income earners, females, the well-educated, widowed or divorced individuals, East Malaysians, urban dwellers, the unemployed, and individuals who are not diagnosed with hypercholesterolemia are less likely to be physically active than others. CONCLUSION Because sociodemographic and health factors play an important role in determining physical activity, the government should take them into account when formulating policy.