%0 Journal Article %9 journal article %J Med Og Nauk Zdr. %@ 2083-4543 %V 21 %N 4 %D 2015 %F Zapała2015 %T Physical activity and life style of working-age women %X Introduction Physical activity is defined as a spontaneous motor activity pursued during one’s leisure time, in any form and in any dimension of the load chosen by the person performing the exercises. It is necessary not only for normal physical, but also emotional, intellectual and social development. It is also a part of a healthy lifestyle and a way to well-being. Is a necessary condition for proper development and good health, an important aspect for preventing diseases, as well as an important element in the treatment of many disorders and diseases called ‘diseases of affluence'. Aim The aim of the study was to assess the health behaviours related to the physical activity of working-age women. Material and Methods The study was conducted in the region Podhale, among rural and urban inhabitants who were selected at random. Statistical analysis was performed using the statistical package Statistica v. 7.1, Microsoft Excel 2000 and Microsoft Excel 2007. The study population consisted of 213 women, including 107 urban and 106 rural inhabitants. The women surveyed were aged 18–60. Conclusions Most frequently, women at working age undertake physical activity 1–2 times a week. The most preferred form of physical activity among women is walking. Only 8% of the women indicate that physical activity is present in their life on a daily basis. Age did not play a significant role in this case. Physical activity is less frequently undertaken by the rural population. Although the research shows that the respondents presented a low level of physical activity, the majority of women in both rural and urban areas considered their physical activity as being normal. The most preferred form of physical activity among the residents of Podhale is walking. In the second place, there was cycling, followed by gymnastics. In the countryside, fewer women take up such activities as swimming and Nordic walking. Education did not exert an effect on the choice of forms of activity. Almost three-quarters of the women surveyed preferred individual forms of activity. %A Zapała, Maria %A Kowalczyk, Bożena %A Lubińska-Żądło, Bogumiła %P 391-397 %R 10.5604/20834543.1186912 %U https://doi.org/10.5604/20834543.1186912