How has the commodification of fitness been beneficial in improving people's attitudes to fitness?
Answers
Between 1998 and 2005, there has been a significant increase in the proportion of people aged 16 years and over in NSW undertaking sufficient physical activity (at least 150 minutes of walking)
– The prevalence of sufficient physical activity was stable from 1998 (47.6%) to 2002 (46.5%), decreased in 2003 (44.7%), increased markedly in 2004 (50.5%) and remained steady in 2005 (51.3%)
– Walking was a major contributor to the change in prevalence of sufficient physical activity, with increased participation in walking since 2004. There were also some increases in moderate and vigorous activity.
– It is possible that increased media coverage of physical activity and obesity between 2001 and 2004 has helped to increase the salience of these issues and motivated people in NSW to participate in physical activity.
– Changes in active commuting behaviours, specifically growth in prevalence of walking to work, and rising petrol prices may have contributed to the increase in physical activity levels.