5. Conclusions
MetS
Individuals with MetS did not show a significant inverse association with PA level compared to those with no MetS. In contrast, individuals with pre-MetS had significantly lower odds of reaching the step count and active minutes recommended by the Japanese Exercise and Physical Activity Reference for Health Promotion guidelines. Moreover, the day of the week (i.e., weekday vs weekend/holiday) was a modifier of the association between MetS status and PA level. We suggest that, in addition to those with MetS, those with pre-MetS would benefit from support strategies that encourage increased PA to reduce the risk of MetS onset. Continuous efforts to promote consistent PA including on weekends/holidays is also needed. Further research using longitudinal analyses with longer study periods, larger sample sizes, and numbers from both genders is needed to confirm our findings.