Physical activity in adults and older people: levels of objectively measured physical activity in a population-based sample of Norwegian adults and older people (20-85 years)

Evidence from epidemiological research and clinical interventions clearly states that physical activity is essential to improve health as well as quality of life. The health gains of increasing physical activity are age-independent and those who benefit the most from increased physical activity are individuals with low levels of activity. Despite the well-documented health gains of performing regular physical activity, there is a paucity of data allowing us to assess the current situation regarding population level of physical activity in Norway. The available data on large-scale assessments of physical activity have relied on self-reported measures, a method that has validity and reliability problems. Purpose: The overall purpose was to increase our knowledge regarding the patterns of physical activity in adults and older people and to investigate factors associated with physical activity, using objectively measured physical activity