Reasons for physical activity practice and body image among health clubs users

The aim of this study was to identify the reasons for physical activity practice and its relationship with body image among health clubs users. The sample was intentionally selected among individuals who were engaged in exercising and sports at the Catholic University of Parana sports center and 90 subjects completed the study (50% males). Anthropometric measurements (body mass, height and skinfolds) were taken as well as a questionnaire about reasons for physical activities and body figures evaluation was applied. The health risks related to overweight/obesity were determined based on relative body fat (%F) and body mass index (BMI). The reason for physical activity and body image scores were compared according to gender, %F and BMI categories through independent t test and with Pearson correlation. Multiple linear regression models were employed to analyze all variables associations. The highest scores were found in questions on health and physical fitness. Women and those with higher %F 'harmony' showed significant difference. Women and those with higher %F or overweight showed more body image dissatisfaction. The reasons 'weight control' and 'harmony' were associated to %F, BMI (except 'harmony') and dissatisfaction with body image. The partial analyses showed that weight control was not associated with body dissatisfaction after adjustment for control variables in both models and the variable harmony showed association only on the first model. In conclusion, the most important motives were health and physical fitness and dissatisfaction with body image seems to be more associated with aspects related to wellness than physical fitness.