Objective: To conduct a cross-sectional study in order to elucidate the relationship between daily physical activity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in male workers. Methods: A total of 547 male workers in Tokushima ranging from 20 to 60 years of age were enrolled between June 2008 and February 2009. To evaluate the level of physical activity, interviews were conducted using the Japanese international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ) with six additional questions. Each participant's diet and medical history were evaluated, and physical examinations and laboratory blood tests were performed. A logistic regression analysis of the characteristics of the participants with MetS and those without identified various physical activities associated with MetS. Results: Seventy-five of the 547 participants were diagnosed with MetS. The participants with MetS had significantly higher BMI values, body fat percentages, abdominal circumferences and levels of fasting blood glucose, HbA1c and triglycerides than those without MetS. When the frequencies of various types of physical activity (days/week) were compared, significant differences were observed in the frequency of vigorous physical activity during recreation, sports and leisure time (OR=0.428) and the frequency of elevator use (OR=1.182). Conclusions: A low frequency of vigorous physical activity during recreation, sports and leisure time and a high frequency of elevator use may be associated with MetS.