Leisure-time physical inactivity from Traditionalists to Generation Z: sociodemographic and behavioral health correlates in Brazilian and Spanish adults

Aim Evidence on generational differences in leisure-time physical activity remains limited, particularly in cross-national contexts. This study aimed to compare the prevalence of insufficient leisure-time physical activity across generational cohorts among adults in Spain and Brazil. Subject and methods A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from the European Health Survey in Spain and the Brazilian National Health Survey ( n = 88,774) including individuals aged ≥ 15 years. Generational cohorts were defined according to birth year. Insufficient activity was defined as engaging in < 150 min per week. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate adjusted associations, controlling for sociodemographic and behavioral factors. Results The prevalence of insufficient leisure-time physical activity was consistently higher in Brazil than in Spain, with the largest disparity observed among Generation X. Across cohorts, Spanish women and Brazilian men exhibited higher levels of inactivity. In Brazil, lower educational attainment and obesity were strongly associated with inactivity. In Spain, individuals reporting no alcohol consumption had higher odds of inactivity, whereas in Brazil, alcohol consumption and smoking were associated with increased odds of inactivity. Conclusion Substantial generational disparities in leisure-time physical activity exist between Brazil and Spain. These findings underscore the need for tailored, generation-specific public health strategies that address the distinct social, behavioral, and structural determinants influencing physical activity across cohorts.