Religiosity as a Determinant of Physical Activity: The Case of Judaism

Abstract

Americans are not engaged in physical activity (PA) at recommended levels for quantity and quality. Research into methods for counteracting this phenomenon is variously rooted; one approach seeks determinants of PA toward identifying factors that facilitate or hinder PA. Identification of determinants provides a useful lens for affecting change through targeted interventions. However, the research consistently demonstrates a multi-factorial basis for determining PA with much variance left unexplained. This paper proposes religionfreligiosity as another or alternative determinant for understanding PA patterns and uses the religion of Judaism as a vehicle for understanding such a relationship. The paper is organized into three major sections: review of previously investigated determinants, argumentation for religion as a determinant, and a limited but focused agenda for beginning study of religion and PA with attention to methodological concerns.