Associations between physical activity profiles and health indicators in sedentary and non-sedentary individuals: a longitudinal population-based cohort study in Geneva, Switzerland

Nehme M, De Ridder D, Kathari G, et al. 
Associations between exercise patterns and health outcomes in sedentary and non-sedentary individuals: a longitudinal population-based study in Geneva, Switzerland. BMJ Public Health, August 2025, 2025;3:e001745. doi:10.1136/ bmjph-2024-001745

Abstract

Objectives: Physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour are important modifiable risk factors for chronic disease. Yet their prevalence remains high despite their well-established negative effects on health. This study evaluates regular moderate versus intermittent but vigorous exercise, and their associations with self-rated health, mental health and sleep quality, in sedentary and non-sedentary individuals.

Methods: Participants in the population-based Specchio study, conducted in Geneva (Switzerland), were followed annually between 2021 and 2024. Baseline data included self-reported levels and frequency of physical activity, as well as health and socioeconomic determinants. Follow-up included information on general health, new health events, mental health and sleep quality. Moderate exercise was defined as physical activity requiring moderate effort (e.g. walking, cycling, gardening, yoga). Vigorous exercise was defined as physical activity requiring greater effort (e.g. jogging, cycling, swimming, tennis, gymnastics).

Models were used to assess associations between exercise level in 2021 and health outcomes between 2021 and 2024 (self-rated general health, mental health and sleep quality), across the sample and by sedentary status.

Results: A total of 5720 participants were included, with a mean age of 51.2 years. A third of the participants reported sedentary behaviour, which was more common among young professionals, men, smokers and people living in couples with children. Older people and retired people were less sedentary in general.

Individuals who engaged in intermittent but vigorous physical activity obtained better scores for general health, mental health and sleep quality, compared with those who engaged in regular moderate activity or partial or no physical activity. Intermittent vigorous exercise was found to be a determinant of better general health (aOR*: 1.43 [1.18-1.72]) and better mental health (aOR: 1.77 [1.47-2.13]). These associations remained significant in sedentary individuals (self-rated health: aOR 1.25 [1.03-1.52]; mental health: aOR 1.39 [1.17-1.66]).

*The aOR was adjusted for age, sex, gender, education level, occupational status, occupation, smoking, alcohol consumption, pre-existing comorbidities and pre-existing mental disorders.

Conclusion: Intermittent but vigorous exercise could be a good option for GPs to recommend, particularly to young professionals with busy schedules and more sedentary behaviour, according to the results of the study.
 

Link to the article in English