Physical activity
Age differences
In 2006/07, there was no statistically significant difference between 15 to 19 year olds and 20 to 24 year olds in terms of physical activity.
Also, when 2006/07 New Zealand Health Survey data is aggregated by sex, it indicates hows that young people aged 15 to 24 report fairly similar levels of physical activity to other age groups up to age 74.
However, when disaggregated, the data shows very different patterns across the lifespan for men and women in terms of meeting physical activity guidelines.
The highest proportions of males meeting physical activity guidelines were found in the younger age groups, with rates declining to age 35 and then remaining steady through middle age. The highest proportion of women meeting physical activity guidelines was found in the 45-54 age group, with a fairly steady growth and decline on either side of that high point.
Proportion of people meeting guidelines for physical activity, by age group and sex, 2006/07
Source: Ministry of Health, New Zealand Health Survey, 2006/07.
