Demographic and socio-economic predictors of physical activity among young adults in Lephalale, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Physical inactivity among young adults is an emerging public health concern in low- and middle-income countries. In South Africa, where the burden of non-communicable diseases is high, little research has examined the socio-demographic determinants of physical activity among rural youth populations. This study investigated the demographic and socio-economic predictors of meeting recommended physical activity levels among young adults aged 18–29 years in Lephalale. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from a community-based survey of 762 participants. Socio-demographic variables included age, sex, education level, income, and employment status, and physical activity was assessed using a structured questionnaire. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with meeting the recommended threshold of at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. A total of 762 young adults aged 18–29 years were included, with 56% females and nearly half (47%) aged 20–24 years. Overall, 12% reported daily physical activity, 33% were active weekly, and 45% were insufficiently active. In univariate analyses, older age (25–29 years: OR = 1.65; 95% CI: 1.25–2.18), high income (OR = 1.35; 95% CI: 1.02–1.78), tertiary education (OR = 1.45; 95% CI: 1.18–1.78), and full-time employment (OR = 1.85; 95% CI: 1.45–2.35) were significantly associated with meeting activity guidelines. In the adjusted model, only tertiary education (AOR = 1.30; 95% CI: 1.00–1.70; p = 0.04) and full-time employment (AOR = 1.50; 95% CI: 1.10–2.05; p = 0.04) remained independent predictors. Sex, age, and income were not significantly associated after adjustment. These findings highlight the importance of education and employment in shaping physical activity behaviours among rural young adults. Public health strategies should prioritise interventions that improve socio-economic opportunities and address barriers to physical activity in low-resource settings.