Physical Activity in Latin American Immigrant Adults Living in Seville, Spain

Abstract

Background Self-rated health status of the Latin American immigrant population in Spain varies by gender, education and doing physical exercise. Physical activity patterns have not been described.

Objective The aims are to describe self-reported physical activity in adult Latin American immigrants living in Seville (Spain) and explore relationships of physical activity with sociodemographic and health-related variables.

Method A representative sample of 190 immigrants between the ages of 25 and 44 years who live in Seville responded to the Centers for Disease Control's Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (Spanish-language version) from May 2010 through May 2011.

Results Physical activity (PA) was practiced by 66.8% during leisure time, 49.2% had a normal weight, and 20.5% were on a diet. The practice of PA was higher in women who had a normal weight, a good state of health and a higher education. Older age was associated with exercising during free time.

Discussion Population-specific strategies are needed to improve the practice of PA among Latin American immigrants in Spain. Research focused on other emerging immigrant groups is needed.