Relationship between sufficient leisure-time physical activity and happiness: Age stratification perspective

Abstract

Background: Leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) has been frequently reported as a method to improve happiness. However, the effects of LTPA sufficiency and age differences are less discussed in the literature. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between LTPA sufficiency and happiness based on an age stratification perspective. Methods: A total of 16,412 data from the national physical activity survey was used for this study. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to examine the odds ratio of LTPA sufficient population on happiness. Results: LTPA sufficient young adults (25-29 years old) performed 2.5 to 3 times the odds on the happiness while compare to insufficient group. However, an unexpected result indicated the negative association between sufficient LTPA and happiness in 35-39 years old men. Intrapersonal differences (e.g. achievement goals and motivational level) and the environment (social context) might play a fundamental role in the LPTA-happiness relationship. Conclusions: The present study argued that the context of LTPA and psychological status should be clearly addressed in terms of its benefit on happiness.