PA assessment and classification

To assess the total amount of PA, the Short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used (Craig et al. 2003). The IPAQ is a valid and reliable questionnaire to assess PA levels in large populations. Thus, IPAQ is divided into three components according to different intensity types of exercise as vigorous, moderate, and walking in the last 7 days. Time spent per day of each intensity was reported into six ranges: zero, less than 30 min, from 30 to 60 min, from 60 to 90 min, from 90 to 120 min, and more than 120 min. Then, it was estimated through median values of its intervals, and for last range (more than 120 min), a value of 135 min was used.

The European Population PA was classified into individuals who meet or do not meet the WHO PA recommendations (World Health Organization 2010), being considered “physically active” or “physically inactive”, respectively. To meet such PA guidelines, individuals must achieve at least one of the following assumptions: (1) 150 min of moderate-intensity PA per week; (2) 75 min of vigorous-intensity PA per week; or (3) any equivalent combination.