FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH THE PRACTICE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN MIDDLE-AGED MEN

Introduction: Increased levels of physical activity (PA) have been important for a healthy life, and to identify associated factors with this practice can encourage the adoption of an active lifestyle. Objective: To analyze the factors associated with the current practice of PA in middle-aged men. Methods: Cross-sectional study with a random sample of 416 middle-aged men (40 to 59 years) in two cities in southern Brazil. A questionnaire was used for data collection, divided into six parts: sample characteristics; anthropometric measurements; socioeconomic strata-IBGE; PA-IPAQ-short version; health perception-BRFSS, and aging male symptoms by the Aging Males' Symptoms scale (AMS). The sample was divided into two age groups: from 40 to 49, and 50 to 59 years old. The statistical analysis was descriptive and inferential. Results: Approximately 60.2% of men were considered sufficiently active (active + very active), however, there were no significant differences between the age groups (p=0.152). Walking was the most prevalent PA and vigorous activity the least prevalent. The intensities of PA (moderate and vigorous walking) were related to education, socioeconomic status, health perception, and symptoms of male aging. The overweight men and with symptoms were more likely of having insufficient PA (OR=1.12; 95% CI= 1.01-1.24; OR=1.30; 95% CI=1.00-1.69). Conclusion: This study identified the relationship of certain personal characteristics of the participants with the intensity of PA. Moreover, it was possible to identify an association between symptoms of male aging and weight status and the level of PA of middle-aged men. Thus, these findings can serve as input to promote PA for men in this age group as a way to improve the life style and care for health.