Monitoring Population Levels of Physical Activity and Sedentary Time in Norway Across the Lifespan

Purpose: The pandemic of physical inactivity is recognized globally but there is a scarcity of studies employing valid and reliable assessment methods of physical activity (PA) across the lifespan. The purpose of this study is to provide a comprehensive description of objectively measured PA, sedentary time, and prevalence of meeting PA recommendations, in a population-based sample of Norwegian children, adolescents and adults.

Methods: Children and adolescents (6, 9 and 15-year-olds) were surveyed in 2011, and adults and older people (20-85-year-olds) were surveyed in 2014/15, including more than 8000 individuals. Anthropometric data were measured in children and adolescents and self-reported in the adult sample. PA was assessed by ActiGraph accelerometers for seven consecutive days, and PA indices include total PA (counts per minute), intensity-specific PA, and adherence to PA recommendations.

Results: Six-year-olds are 21% and 70% more active than 9- and 15-year-olds, respectively (P < 0.001). Nine-year-olds are 40% more active compared to 15-year-olds (P < 0.001). Moving from adolescence (15-year-olds) into adulthood (20-65 years) yields a further reduction in total PA by 18%. Among six-, nine- and 15-year olds, 90%, 77%, and 48% meet the current PA recommendations, respectively, while adherence among adults and older people are 33% and 31%, respectively. Overweight and obese individuals had lower odds of meeting PA recommendations.

Conclusions: The results from the Norwegian surveillance system indicate a strong association between age and indices of physical activity. The vast majority of Norwegian adults do not meet the PA recommendations and public health action are needed to increase PA in Norway.