Table 4 Perceived health benefits of physical activity (PA) and their frequencies
General benefits of PA participation (N = 378) | Frequency, n (%)* | Chronic disease related benefits of PA participation (N = 378) | Frequency, n (%)* |
|---|---|---|---|
Increases alertness/activeness | 129 (34.1) | Reduces/controls weight | 46 (12.2) |
Helps in relaxation | 79 (20.9) | Prevents diseases | 37 (9.9) |
Reduces stress | 60 (15.9) | Reduces/controls BP | 11 (2.9) |
Increases strength/fitness | 59 (15.6) | Reduces/controls cholesterol | 11 (2.9) |
Promotes sleep | 41 (10.8) | Increases life span | 8 (2.1) |
Improves digestion | 38 (10.1) | Prevents/controls diabetes | 5 (1.3) |
Makes one feel good/happy | 32 (8.5) | Â | |
Improves flexibility/reduces stiffness | 26 (6.9) | ||
Reduces joint pain | 25(6.6) | ||
Improves appetite/hunger | 14 (3.7) | ||
Improves circulation | 13 (3.4) | ||
Increases endurance | 12 (3.2) | ||
Removes impurities | 5 (1.3) | ||
Increases immunity | 3 (0.8) | ||
Reduces/prevents constipation | 3 (0.8) | ||