Physical activity behavior among coronary outpatients according to socio-demographic and clinical profile

Behavior and motivation for physical activity (PA) were assessed among 144 coronary heart disease outpatients according to the sociodemographic and clinical profile. The sample was predominantly male (63.9%), with 59.4(+/- 8.8) years, with low levels of monthly income and schooling. Behavior and Habitual PA measures revealed sedentary lifestyle with high motivation for future PA. Women, patients with history of angina and non-smokers reported lower levels of behavior and motivation. Higher age, lower income, lower number of associated conditions, less time since last coronary syndrome and higher values of BMI were associated to lower levels of PA. The findings suggest that the pattern of PA and motivation vary among CHD outpatients according to sociodemographic and clinical profile, information that should be considered in educational interventions.