Validation and reliability of the satisfaction scale for physical activity in adults

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the validation, internal consistency and reliability of the satisfaction scale for performing physical activity among Brazilian adults. METHODS: The satisfaction scale for the performance of physical activity was applied using a multidimensional questionnaire. Face-to-face interviews were performed with 1,461 subjects (63.7% females) who were at least 18 years in Curitiba, Southern Brazil from April 2009 to July 2009. The questionnaire was submitted to an analysis of its validity (factorial and construct) and reliability (internal consistency and temporal stability). The test-retest procedure was used to assess temporal stability after a one-week interval (n = 74). RESULTS: The exploratory factor analysis yielded two main factors: satisfaction with the practice of walking during leisure-time and satisfaction with the practice of moderate or vigorous physical activity. These factors explained 29.3% of the variance for walking and 53.5% of the variance for moderate and vigorous physical activity. Alpha values of 0.91 and 0.88, respectively, indicated high internal consistency and two subscales. The scale items presented high agreement in the test-retest for both walking (71.7% to 81.1%) and moderate and vigorous physical activity (80.5% to 92.6%). These factors presented a significant correlation with time spent walking (minutes/week) (rho = 0.23; p < 0.001) and time spent performing moderate and vigorous physical activity (rho = 0.21; p < 0.001), which indicated the validation of the construct. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed satisfaction scale for the performance of physical activity has been appropriately validated and exhibits internal consistency and reliability for Brazilian adults.