Apoio social do cônjuge para atividade física entre adultos frequentadores de academias da cidade de Pelotas-RS

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the direct effects of the partner social support in the physical activity (PA) behavior. Methods: Cross-sectional study, conducted in 26 gyms from Pelotas-RS, Brazil. PA was measured with proper questions about frequency and duration of PA performed in/outside the gym. A total PA score was generated multiplying frequency and duration. Partner Social Support (PSS) was measured by an adaptation of Social Support Scale for Physical Activity. PA was analyzed in three forms: numerical, dichotomized (median = 300 min/week) and quartiles. PSS was analyzed in quartiles. Respectively, Linear, Poisson and Multinomial regression were used to quantify the associations. Results: PSS was associated to PA in all analysis. Linear regression showed that persons belonging to the highest PSS quartile performed 66.1 (95%CI 11.1 - 121.0) more minutes of PA than those from the lowest quartile. Poisson regression showed that persons from the highest PSS quartile had 1.37 (95%CI 1.01 – 1.85) higher probability to perform more than 300 min/week of PA. Multinomial regression analysis presented similar results. Conclusion: PSS is directly associated with PA. Researches must consider the potential effect of partner social support on the target behavior change.