Sociodemographic trends in leisure-time physical activity in the adult Danish population from 2010 to 2023

Abstract

Aim:

To describe sociodemographic trends in leisure-time physical activity among Danish adults from 2010 to 2023.

Methods:

Data from the Danish Health and Morbidity Survey waves of 2010, 2013, 2017, 2021 and 2023 were used. Around 10,000 individuals (aged ⩾25 years) participated in each wave (response rates ranging from 61% in 2010 to 41% in 2023). Leisure-time physical activity was assessed using a modified version of the Saltin-Grimby Physical Activity Level Scale. Prevalence and adjusted odds ratios (OR) were estimated according to sex, age and educational attainment.

Results:

From 2010 to 2021, the prevalence of leisure-time physical activity decreased from 32.5% to 26.1% among men and from 20.1% to 14.9% among women. Notably, the decline was most pronounced between 2017 and 2021 (COVID-19 year) but was followed by an increase in 2023 for both sexes. However, leisure-time physical activity among individuals aged 25–44 years further declined from 2021 to 2023. Throughout the study period, a persistent social inequality in leisure-time physical activity was observed. In 2023, this educational gap widened and the odds ratios for leisure-time physical activity among individuals with higher educational attainment compared with primary education were OR 2.73 (95% confidence interval 1.93–3.88) among men and were OR 2.95 (95% confidence indterval 1.80–4.83) among women.

Conclusions:

Leisure-time physical activity among Danish adults declined from 2010 to 2021, with a notable decrease between 2017 and 2021, followed by a partial recovery. Persistent sex, age, and social disparities were observed, with age and social disparities further widening by 2023. This highlights the need for targeted interventions to promote equal participation in physical activity.