Examining the Relationship Between Psychosocial Working Conditions, Physical Work Demands, and Leisure Time Physical Activity in Canada

Objective: To examine the effects of psychosocial working conditions and physical work demands on leisure time physical activity (LTPA). Methods: Using path analysis, direct and indirect effects of self-reported working conditions on LTPA levels were assessed in a representative sample of 4167 workers from the 2000 to 2001 Canadian National Population Health Survey. Results: Higher levels of skill discretion and decision latitude were associated with higher LTPA. Physical work demands had opposite effects among men versus women, and skill discretion had a stronger effect among women than among men. Job security had a stronger effect on older workers and those without children younger than 13 years. Conclusions: The results support the influence of the work environment on LTPA and suggest that certain work conditions should be targeted in future interventions seeking to impact participation in physical activity.