Is participation in occupational physical activity associated with lifestyle physical activity levels?

Objective: Little is known about the prevalence of lifestyle physical activity (PA) by occupational PA (mostly sitting, walking, or heavy labor).

Methods: Descriptive and adjusted multivariable logistic regression analysis of lifestyle PA (regularly active, irregularly active, inactive) and occupational activity was used (N = 6,360).

Results: The prevalence of regular lifestyle activity was 45.7% among those who sit/stand, 49.6% among walkers, and 59.7% among heavy laborers. The regression analysis showed that adults working in heavy labor were almost twice as likely to be regularly active as those who sit/stand.

Conclusion: Contrary to expectation, adults who engage in physically demanding work appear to be more active outside the job. Those who are sedentary at work could benefit from having access to opportunities for PA during the workday and trying to engage in activity outside of work hours.