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.
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.
Six-year-olds are 21% and 70% more active than 9- and 15-year-olds, respectively (P