Demographics. As a group, women exercise less than men.
In 1 survey,female gender was the single strongest negative predictor of self-rated activity. Women also suffer disproportionately more physical disability than men and report less physical exercise self-efficacy. Additionally, women
seem to experience higher barriers to activity. Reported barriers include spousal care, stress, depression, body image, urinary incontinence, and poverty. Considering their matrix of less activity, greater longevity, and more physical disability
elder women have more to gain from increased activity than men. In addition to gender, membership in a minority population or low socioeconomic status are negative predictors of activity,suggesting that a greater burden of barriers may be involved in these cases. Demographic factors are largely immutable and people vary widely, requiring individualized assessment. Nevertheless, being cognizant of demographic issues may help clinicians assess and tailor activity programs. It also helps identify individuals at relatively high risk for inadequate exercise and increased barriers.