Abstract

PETROSKI, Edio Luiz  and  OLIVEIRA, Marcelle M. de. Leisure-time physical activity and behavior change stages in University teachers. Rev. Port. Cien. Desp. [online]. 2008, vol.8, n.2, pp.209-218. ISSN 1645-0523.

The objective was to evaluate leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and behavior change stages (BCS) related to physical activity among University teachers. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out at the Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, in Florianópolis, SC, Brazil enrolling 190 fulltime teachers (113 males and 77 females). Two self-administered questionnaires were used, the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire was used to assess LTPA levels; and the Marcus questionnaire was used for BCS.  It was observed that 71% of the sample was classified as either performing little activity or being regularly inactive. The two most prevalent BCS were: the Maintenance stage, with 61 cases (32%), and the Contemplation stage, with 59 cases (31%), in which men were more prevalent. The results demonstrated a positive association between LTPA and BCS and between ages below 50 years and LTPA (p<0.05).  Conclusions - 1. Fulltime University teachers’ level of LTPA was low and irregular; 2. Analysis of LTPA practices indicated that the men performed more vigorous and light activities while the women performed more moderate activities.

Keywords : university teachers; physical activity; behavior; inactivity; leisure.

        · abstract in Portuguese     · text in Portuguese     · Portuguese ( pdf )