The present study evaluated a measure of perceived physical environments that may influence physical activity. Forty-three self-report items were used to assess environmental variables at homes, in neighborhoods, or on frequently traveled routes. The presence of facilitators of (e.g., equipment, programs, attractive surroundings) and barriers to (e.g., high crime) physical activity was assessed. In 110 college students, test-retest reliabilities were .89 for the home equipment scale, .68 for the neighborhood scale, and .80 for the convenient facilities scale. Home equipment and convenient facilities scales were correlated with self-reported physical activity. In multiple regression analyses, the only significant association, after adjusting for neighborhood socioeconomic status, was home equipment with strength exercise. Further research is needed to identify other environmental characteristics that may influence physical activity.

Background:Sedentary behavior is related to obesity, but measures of sedentary behaviors are lacking for adults. The purpose of this study was to examine the reliability and validity of the Sedentary Behavior Questionnaire (SBQ) among overweight adults.Methods:Participants were 49 adults for the 2 week test-retest reliability study (67% female, 53% white, mean age = 20) and 401 overweight women (mean age = 41, 61% white) and 441 overweight men (mean age = 44, 81% white) for the validity study. The SBQ consisted of reports of time spent in 9 sedentary behaviors. Outcomes for validity included accelerometer measured inactivity, sitting time (International Physical Activity Questionnaire), and BMI. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) assessed reliability and partial correlations assessed validity.Results:ICCs were acceptable for all items and the total scale (range = .51–.93). For men, there were significant relationships of SBQ items with IPAQ sitting time and BMI. For women, there were relationships between the SBQ and accelerometer inactivity minutes, IPAQ sitting time, and BMI.Conclusions:The SBQ has acceptable measurement properties for use among overweight adults. Specific measures of sedentary behavior should be included in studies and population surveillance.

Of the 7 dietary and physical activity variables examined in this cross-sectional study, insufficient vigorous physical activity was the only risk factor for higher body mass index for adolescent boys and girls. Prospective studies are needed to clarify the relative importance of dietary and physical activity behaviors on overweight in adolescence.

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