Personality Traits Linked to Physical Activity and Sedentary Patterns

Personality Traits Linked to Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior

A recent study has uncovered how personality traits can significantly influence both physical activity and sedentary behavior patterns. Conducted by the Gerontology Research Centre and the University of Jyväskylä in Finland, the research highlights that people with specific individuality tend to follow certain patterns when it comes to their physical activity levels and time spent being sedentary.

Over several decades, the study tracked the physical behavior of individuals at ages 33, 42, 50, and 61. The findings suggest that individuals with resilient personalities—defined by high levels of conscientiousness and extraversion—engage in both prolonged physical activity and sedentary behavior. Conversely, people with a “brittle” personality, often linked to higher neuroticism, are more likely to interrupt their sedentary periods, a behavior that could actually benefit their health.

What Are Resilient and Brittle Personalities?

The study categorized participants into five distinct personality traits profiles:

1. Resilient – high in conscientiousness and extraversion.
2. Brittle – associated with higher neuroticism.
3. Overcontrolled – low in extraversion, openness, and agreeableness.
4. Under controlled – high in openness but low in conscientiousness.
5. Ordinary – average in all mannerism.

People with resilient personalities tend to have longer periods of both physical activity and rest, often participating in scheduled activities like sports. On the other hand, those with a brittle personality, characterized by higher neuroticism, appear uncomfortable staying sedentary for too long and often engage in lighter activities to break up long periods of rest. This interruption of sedentary behavior can help reduce health risks.

The Role of Neuroticism in Sedentary Behavior

The study also examined how neuroticism—a personality trait often associated with higher levels of sedentary behavior—played a role in physical activity. While people with neurotic tendencies are usually more sedentary, those with a brittle personality (high in neuroticism) were found to interrupt their sedentary time more frequently, which can have positive effects on their health.

Johanna Ahola, a doctoral researcher at the University of Jyväskylä, commented, “People with a resilient personality are more likely to engage in structured activities, while those with a brittle personality tend to prefer lighter, more frequent activities to avoid prolonged inactivity.”

Physical Activity and Mortality Risk

The study also considered the relationship between physical activity and mortality risk. Previous research suggests that when moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) constitutes more than 10% of the time spent sedentary, it can significantly reduce the risk of mortality. While no major differences were found in overall activity levels between personality traits, those with resilient and ordinary personalities had more favorable MVPA-to-sedentary ratios, which are considered beneficial for long-term health.

Implications for Personality and Health

The research sheds light on how characteristics influence not only physical activity but also sedentary patterns, suggesting that people with different temperament may need tailored health interventions. Understanding how resilient or brittle personalities manage their physical activity and rest could help create personalized strategies that improve health outcomes.

Katja Kokko, the study’s lead researcher, noted, “Our research suggests that identity significantly influence how people approach their health, including their physical activity habits and sedentary time.”

The study also points out the potential for personality profiling in public health campaigns, where personalized strategies could encourage individuals to adopt healthier behaviors in a way that feels more natural to them based on their characteristics.

In conclusion, this study offers valuable insights into how singularity can influence both physical activity and sedentary behavior. By recognizing the connection between personality and health, individuals can make more informed decisions about their health and well-being. Whether you identify with a resilient, brittle, or another personality type, understanding your tendencies toward physical activity and sedentary behavior can help you lead a healthier lifestyle.