To describe the physical activity patterns across levels of obesity among US adults.The frequency, intensity, and duration of physical activities were compared across obesity status in 7695 adults from NHANES, 1999-2006.Significantly more normal-weight adults engaged in moderate- and vigorous- intensity activities and for a longer duration than did their overweight or obese counterparts. Lower intensity, longer duration walking contributed to nearly half of all moderate activity among obese subjects.Significant differences exist in intensity, frequency, and duration of physical activity by weight status. This information suggests a targeted approach to current physical activity interventions be explored.