Influence of Housing Affordability on Physical Activity Engagement Through the Mediating Role of Leisure Time Satisfaction and Work-Related Behavior

Abstract

Promoting physical activity is critical to public health. However, the growing challenge of housing affordability poses a potential threat to an individual's ability to maintain an active lifestyle. This research developed a conceptual framework to test the potential impacts of housing affordability on physical activity levels through the mediating effects of time consumption, commuting behavior, and occupational characteristics. Path analysis is used to justify the intricate relationships between housing affordability and physical activity. The analysis reveals that individuals with higher income residual may achieve a comparable overall level of walking activities to their wealthier counterparts. However, it is driven by practical needs such as commuting and occupation, as opposed to the leisure-oriented walking observed in wealthier individuals. Additionally, wealthier individuals with high-income residuals enjoy a more varied spectrum of physical activity sources, including sports, leisure-time physical activity, and cycling for transport. In contrast, individuals with lower incomes face limitations in achieving leisure-time physical activities, potentially impacting their overall opportunities to achieve moderate-vigorous physical activity. The findings from this study carry important policy implications for promoting physical activity and addressing disparities associated with housing affordability.