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Open Access 01-12-2019 | Research article

Distinct trajectories of physical activity and related factors during the life course in the general population: a systematic review

Authors: Irinja Lounassalo, Kasper Salin, Anna Kankaanpää, Mirja Hirvensalo, Sanna Palomäki, Asko Tolvanen, Xiaolin Yang, Tuija H. Tammelin

Published in: BMC Public Health | Issue 1/2019

Abstract

Background

In recent years, researchers have begun applying a trajectory approach to identify homogeneous subgroups of physical activity (PA) in heterogeneous populations. This study systematically reviewed the articles identifying longitudinal PA trajectory classes and the related factors (e.g., determinants, predictors, and outcomes) in the general population during different life phases.

Methods

The included studies used finite mixture models for identifying trajectories of PA, exercise, or sport participation. Three electronic databases, PubMed (Medline), Web of Science, and CINAHL, were searched from the year 2000 to 13 February 2018. The study was conducted according to the PRISMA recommendations.

Results

Twenty-seven articles were included and organized into three age group: youngest (eleven articles), middle (eight articles), and oldest (eight articles). The youngest group consisted mainly of youth, the middle group of adults and the oldest group of late middle-aged and older adults. Most commonly, three or four trajectory classes were reported. Several trajectories describing a decline in PA were reported, especially in the youngest group, whereas trajectories of consistently increasing PA were observed in the middle and oldest group. While the proportion of persistently physically inactive individuals increased with age, the proportion was relatively high at all ages. Generally, male gender, being Caucasian, non-smoking, having low television viewing time, higher socioeconomic status, no chronic illnesses, and family support for PA were associated either with persistent or increasing PA.

Conclusions

The reviewed articles identified various PA subgroups, indicating that finite mixture modeling can yield new information on the complexity of PA behavior compared to studying population mean PA level only. The studies also provided novel information how different factors relate to changes in PA during life course. The recognition of the PA subgroups and their determinants is important for the more precise targeting of PA promotion and PA interventions.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42018088120.

Available only for authorised users

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Title: Distinct trajectories of physical activity and related factors during the life course in the general population: a systematic review
Authors: Irinja Lounassalo
Kasper Salin
Anna Kankaanpää
Mirja Hirvensalo
Sanna Palomäki
Asko Tolvanen
Xiaolin Yang
Tuija H. Tammelin
Publication date: 01-12-2019
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Public Health / Issue 1/2019
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2458
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-019-6513-y

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Distinct trajectories of physical activity and related factors during the life course in the general population: a systematic review

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Trial registration

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Trial registration

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