Predictors of leisure time physical activity among people with spinal cord injury.

BACKGROUND

Most studies of physical activity predictors in people with disability have lacked a guiding theoretical framework. Identifying theory-based predictors is important for developing activity-enhancing strategies.

PURPOSE: To use the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework to identify predictors of leisure time physical activity among people with spinal cord injury (SCI).

METHODS

Six hundred ninety-five persons with SCI (M age=47; 76% male) completed measures of Body Functions and Structures, Activities and Participation, Personal Factors, and Environmental Factors at baseline and 6-months. Activity was measured at 6 and 18 months. Logistic and linear regression models were computed to prospectively examine predictors of activity status and activity minutes per day.

RESULTS

Models explained 19%-25% of variance in leisure time physical activity. Activities and Participation and Personal Factors were the strongest, most consistent predictors.

CONCLUSIONS

The ICF framework shows promise for identifying and conceptualizing predictors of leisure time physical activity in persons with disability.