Demographic variables versus physical activity level of the Naleczow Health Resort visitors

Introduction. Low levels of physical activity in the society have been observed in Poland for many years, especially in case of elder people. It is surprising that, in the era of intensified development of diseases of affluence, many people still do not recognize health benefits that result from regular physical exercise. Materials and method. 622 health resort visitors who participated in the research in the Nałęczów Health Resort were divided into groups based on socio-demographic status in order to recognize the determinants of their physical activity. A short version of International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to estimate the level of physical activity. Results. Health resort visitors were characterized by a relatively low level of general physical activity, and walking was a predominant type of exercise. Surprisingly, professional status did not significantly differentiate participants’ physical activity. However, especially participants from small villages and towns with primary education presented a low level of physical activity. These were mostly pensioners and persons of disadvantaged groups with lower income. Conclusions. Most of health resort visitors represent low level of physical activity which cannot be significantly and statistically differentiated by any demographic variable.