Anxiety sensitivity and physical activity are inversely related: A meta-analytic review

Abstract

The relation between anxiety sensitivity and physical activity is important because of the significant physical and mental health improvements physical activity yields for individuals with elevated anxiety sensitivity. Most studies suggest anxiety sensitivity has a negative relation with physical activity; however, there are mixed results regarding the presence and magnitude of this association. This study aimed to synthesize and analyze the existing literature to clarify the presence/magnitude of this association and assess various potential moderators. A comprehensive search identified 43 eligible studies, including 10,303 participants. Results revealed a significant, albeit small magnitude, inverse relation between anxiety sensitivity and physical activity without intervention (r = -.09). The relation was stronger with increasing physical activity intensity. Mental health status moderated the relation with general samples (versus clinical mental health samples). The relation was significant for physical and cognitive concerns, but not social concerns. These results suggest elevated anxiety sensitivity is associated with lower levels of physical activity, which is a risk factor for many health concerns and, therefore, anxiety sensitivity should be targeted for interventions to increase physical activity involvement.