Walking is the most preferred Leisure-Time Physical Activity (LTPA) among adults across the United States of America. But several people who engage in walking still do not meet their physical activity guidelines, as per a recent study published online on PLOS ONE, dated April 1, 2026.
An expert from West Virginia University and her colleagues assessed the most prevalent LTPAs among adults and their relationship with physical activity formats. The analysis included facts and figures from the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Study.
The experts noticed that walking was the most promising activity among all to boost energy. Most rural residents engaged themselves in hunting, fishing, lawn maintenance, household work, childcare, and ranch work. Some even engaged in various winter activities. Urban residents preferred running, walking, jogging, weight lifting, and conditioning sports as physical activities. Non-metropolitan residents preferred staying inactive and took less participation in muscle-strengthening activities. The research showed that those engaging in walking, along with other physical activities, meet the LTPA guidelines around 78%. Remaining 22% did not meet their physical activity guidelines.
According to the National Library of Medicine, the key findings from the West Virginia University study are:
- Walking is the most common activity and the top choice for leisure-time physical activities among both rural and urban residents.
- Rural residents reported more gardening and fishing, whereas urban residents preferred running, dancing, and weight lifting.
- Despite being the top activity, several walkers fail to meet the recommended 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous aerobic activity per week.
- The research also highlights a requirement to tailor physical activity programs to support rural populations and enhance overall activity rates.
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