Differences in physical activity between non-overweight, overweight and obese children.

Jurij Planinsec, Crtomir Matejek
Author Information
  1. Jurij Planinsec: Faculty of Education, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia.

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to find out differences in moderate to vigorous physical activity among non-overweight, overweight and obese children, and between boys and girls. The sample included 364 children (179 boys and 185 girls), aged 6.4 years (+/- 0.3 SD). Physical activity was assessed by 7-day questionnaire. Age adapted BMI was used as overweight and obesity indicator. The children were divided into non-overweight, overweight and obese groups. It was found out, that there are significant differences in non-overweight, overweight and obese children (p < 0.05). Boys were significantly (p < 0.05) less moderate to vigorous physical active than girls, especially in indoor activities. There were also significant differences (p < 0.05) in moderate to vigorous physical activity among non-overweight and obese boys and among overweight and obese boys in weekends and total weekly activity. In girls there are significant differences (p < 0.05) in non-overweight, overweight and groups in weekends and total weekly activity. It is possible to conclude, that obese boys and overweight and obese girls, are prone to less physical activity.

MeSH Term

Activities of Daily Living
Body Mass Index
Body Weight
Child
Cross-Sectional Studies
Exercise
Female
Humans
Male
Obesity
Physical Fitness
Sex Factors

Word Cloud

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