Physical activity is known to improve physical, mental, and social well‑being, yet people with disabilities are often overlooked in health promotion efforts. This study examined the relationship between physical activity and health‑related quality of life (HRQOL) among people with disabilities. A secondary analysis of data from the 2003 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System was conducted using structural equation modeling and multiple regression analyses in a sample of 45,142 adults with disabilities. Results showed that sedentary individuals had significantly lower HRQOL, while physically active individuals reported better physical, mental, and functional health across all levels of disability. These findings suggest that physical activity, rather than disability status alone, is strongly associated with improved HRQOL and highlight the importance of inclusive, accessible physical activity interventions.
