Physical activity habits and associated factors in open green spaces of young adults: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study was conducted to determine the relationship between green space usage habits and physical activity in young adults.DesignA cross‐sectional and correlational design.SampleThe study was conducted with 455 young adults who were studying at a faculty between February and May 2023.MeasurementsThe research data were collected face‐to‐face using a form prepared by the researchers in line with the literature and tested before collection. The form includes questions about green space use habits, green exercise levels, and leisure time activities in green spaces.ResultsThe probability of male young adults to do physical activity in green spaces compared to women aOR: 2.4 (95% CI: 1.4–3.9, p = .001), the probability of young adults with higher family income to do physical activity in green spaces than those with low‐income aOR: 5.4 (95% CI: 2.7–10.8, p < .001), the probability of young adults who do physical activity in indoor spaces to do physical activity in green spaces compared to those who do not aOR: 2.4 (95% CI: 1.5–3.6, p < .001), 500 m away from the green space aOR: 2.8 (95% CI: 1.6–4.9, p < .001) is more likely for those living farther away to engage in physical activity in green spaces than those living closer than 100 m.ConclusionsYoung adults' gender, income, distance to green spaces, and sports activities under various conditions have an impact on physical activity in open green spaces.