The Relationship between Regular Exercise and Social Capital among Japanese Community Residents

抄録

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between regular exercise levels and social capital among residents in Japanese communities. The present study had a cross-sectional design and was done from November 2006 to January 2007. Questionnaires were distributed to people aged 30 and older who visited dispensing pharmacies. It was explained that returning the questionnaire would be regarded as consent for participation though the participants to return the questionnaires anonymously. Out of the 655 questionnaires returned (response rate was 21.37%), 617 (male: 236, female: 381, mean age=63.26±13.50) were valid for statistical analyses. Demographic data and data on regular exercise levels and on four items (i.e. acquaintances in the community, reciprocal cooperation in their community, contact with community residents, and participation in social activities) which rated social capital were collected. From the results of analyses of covariance, adjusting for age, male residents who were more active had more contact with community residents. On the other hand, it was found that active female residents participated more in social activities. The present study concludes that regular exercise levels relate to some aspects of social capital among residents in Japanese communities.