Multiple physical activity recommendations exist for behaviors that vary in
type and intensity (e.g., vigorous physical activity, strengthening exerci
ses, moderate physical activity). The present study examined underlying dim
ensions of physical activity behaviors and determined the extent to which f
actors correspond to national health recommendations. Fifteen variables wer
e drawn from six self-report measures and subjected to factor analysis with
quartimax rotation. Participants were 547 university seniors (56% female;
60% Caucasian; mean age = 25 years). TV watching, the only index of sedenta
ry behavior, did not load highly with other items, and was analyzed separat
ely. Three interpretable factors were found: variables related to vigorous
physical activity loaded highly on Factor 1; flexibility and strengthening
items loaded highly on Factor 2; and moderate and housework activity loaded
highly on Factor 3. Factors corresponded closely to national recommendatio
ns. Unweighted factor scores and TV watching correlated significantly with
physiological indicators of fitness, supporting construct validity. (C) 200
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