Patterns of Physical Activity and Its Impact on the Quality of Life: A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis

Background. In many countries, including Indonesia, the tendency for non-communicable diseases is increasing. Consequently, health costs must be paid by the state and continue to increase. People's lifestyles, including lack of physical activity, are thought to have contributed significantly to the problem. Objectives. This study aims to examine the impact of physical activity on quality of life, which is reflected in three main indicators: health, psychological and social. Methods. The study was conducted in the city of Surabaya and its surroundings with a total of 490 participants, consisting of 245 men and 245 women with an average age of 45.4 ± 15.4 years. Data on physical activity and quality of life were collected by questionnaire and analyzed using structural equation modeling. Results. The test results of the model proved that the value of chi-square= 8.259 with p= 0.409, RMSE = 0.008, NFI = 0.992, and CFI = 1.0. It means that the model was compatible with the data. The model explained that physical activity has a significant effect on the quality of life. Conclusion. People who exercise regularly are better able to cope with stress, have a lower risk of illness, and have higher pro-social behavior. Therefore, it needs serious efforts from stakeholders, especially the government, to create an ecosystem that allows the growth of movement culture in the community.