Objectives: The main goal of this study was to assess the level of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and its differentiation across the seasons among persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). The additional aim was to determine whether socio-demographical, injury, and seasonal factors are determinants of LTPA.
Methods: This study included 51 adults with SCI, who completed the LTPA questionnaire for persons with SCI during a calendar year in the middle of four seasons, and demographic questionnaire. A multiple regression analysis was used to examine the role of socio-demographical, injury, and seasonal variables, as determinants of LTPA.
Results: The levels of LTPA were differentiated throughout the seasons. Three models containing variables related to LTPA were created. All models were significant, for mild LTPA (F = 10.01, r 2 = 0.21), moderate LTPA (F = 5.24, r 2 = 0.9), and heavy LTPA (F = 7.09, r 2 = 0.6). Age at the time of study, lack of employment, tetraplegia, and shorter time since injury were significantly, negatively associated with LTPA.
Conclusion: LTPA in persons with SCI differs significantly in relation to the seasons throughout a year. The season of the year should be considered in future studies and interventions on LTPA in adults with SCI.
Keywords: Spinal cord injury; leisure-time physical activity; longitudinal; physical activity; seasonal variation.