Leisure time physical activity among Latinos in San Diego, CA: A social ecological approach

Introduction: Levels of physical activity (PA) are low among Latinos and leisure time PA (LTPA) differs by gender and level of acculturation. Research on the correlates of PA among Latinos emphasizes individual-level factors. The social ecological model addresses the interdependence of individual-level, socio-cultural and environmental factors on health behavior. Thus, to understand PA in a larger context, there is a need to apply the SEM to describe multi-level correlates influencing Latinos' LTPA in addition to moderators of this relationship.

Methods: A telephone-administered survey assessing demographics, social-ecological factors, and PA was administered to 672 Latino adults randomly sampled from a community in San Diego County.

Results: The average age of participants was 39±13 years, and most had low acculturation (Spanish-speakers, Mexican-born, Mexican-oriented acculturation score). More than half were married (58%), female (71%), and were overweight/obese (61%). Only 36% met guidelines for LTPA. Structural equation modeling showed differences by gender and level of acculturation. Among men, social support (SS) and self-efficacy directly correlated with LTPA. Among women and less acculturated Latinos, self-efficacy mediated the relationship between SS and LTPA, and neighborhood cohesion and safety were indirectly related to LTPA through community resource awareness. Among more acculturated Latinos, self-efficacy mediated the relationship between SS and LTPA. Neighborhood safety and awareness directly influenced LTPA. BMI and marital status were significant covariates.

Discussion: These findings suggest different mechanisms that influence behavior by level of acculturation and gender. Thus, this study may help contribute to the development of culturally appropriate interventions for PA promotion among Latinos.