Understanding physical activity among young Ghanaians aged 15–34 years

AbstractThe present study employs quantitative and qualitative approaches to investigate physical activity among young Ghanaians. Using the 2008 Demographic and Health Survey data, Ghanaian youths were found to be physically inactive. We also found that physical activity was associated with marital status and region of residence among males whilst religion, marital status, place of residence and region of residence were found to be significantly associated with physical activity among females. Results of the qualitative analysis showed that for the youth, therapeutic reasons and physical attractiveness were the reasons to engage in physical activity. Reasons such as maintaining chastity, safety, ill health, type of upbringing, laziness were some barriers identified by the youth. The policy implications of the findings in regard to the prevention of obesity and other non-communicable diseases among the youth are discussed.