Sex, age, season, and habitual physical activity of older Japanese: the Nakanojo study

J Aging Phys Act. 2008 Jan;16(1):3-13. doi: 10.1123/japa.16.1.3.

Abstract

The interactions of sex, age, season, and habitual physical activity were examined in 41 male and 54 female Japanese age 65-83 yr, using a pedometer/accelerometer that determined step counts and amounts of physical activity (<3 and >3 metabolic equivalents [METs]) throughout each 24-hr period for an entire year. All 3 measures were greater in men than in women. In women, age was negatively correlated with step count and activity <3 METs, but in men, it was correlated with step count and activity >3 METs. Irrespective of sex or age, all 3 activity variables were low in the winter, peaking in spring or autumn. In the summer, step counts matched the annual average, but durations of activity <3 and >3 METs were, respectively, longer and shorter than in other seasons. These findings have practical implications for those promoting physical activity for older adults.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aged / physiology*
  • Aged / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Habits
  • Humans
  • Japan / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Motor Activity / physiology*
  • Seasons
  • Sex Factors