Association between race/color and free time physical activity in brazilians

Abstract

The objective was to investigate the association between race/color and free time physical activity (FTPA) in Brazilians. The dependent variables were the recommended practice of FTPA and walking, resistance training and soccer as the main FTPA and the independent variable was the self-declared race/color. Blacks (blacks and browns) formed one group and whites and yellows another group. Prevalence ratios (PR) and confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated for men and women overall and stratified by income and education. In the overall analysis, the prevalence of FTPA recommended practice was higher in white/yellow men, but the association was reversed in the adjusted analysis, being higher in blacks (PR = 1.07; 95%CI: 1.03–1.12). In the adjusted analysis, a higher prevalence of soccer as the main activity was observed among black men (PR = 1.28; 95%CI: 1.20–1.37). In women no associations were observed. In analyzes stratified by income and education, some associations were observed, in general, indicating greater practice among blacks, especially in soccer. It is concluded that race/color has a moderate relationship with FTPA, varying according to the type and depending on income and education.