Physical activity levels and muscle capacity in secondary school students in Chile
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v71.116958Keywords:
activity physical, muscle capacity, health, teenagers, school vulnerabilityAbstract
Introduction: Regular physical activity (PA) is essential for developing and maintaining overall health at all stages of life. Among its many benefits, the improvement of muscular capacity stands out, a key component of physical condition.
Objective: To analyze the levels of habitual physical activity and muscular fitness in a school-aged adolescent population (13 to 18 years old) attending schools with a low vulnerability index in the Metropolitan Region of Chile.
Methodology: A descriptive study with a cross-sectional approach, 102 schoolchildren aged 13, 15, and 18 (57 women and 45 men) were evaluated. The variables analyzed were muscle function, measured by grip strength (kg) and lower body explosive strength (cm), and physical activity level, using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents (PAQ-A).
Results: Significant differences were observed between women and men for physical activity levels; PA [Women: 2.44 (2.21-2.34); Men: 2.97 (2.32-3.01) (p<0.001)] and grip strength [Women: 21.54 (19.5-24.5); Men: 35.5 (30.3-37.5); (p<0.001)], as well as, significant differences are presented for levels of A.F between the ages of [13 years 2.53 (1.99-263)]; 15 years [2.21 (2.01-2.18) (p<0.005)] and grip strength between 13 years [31.3 (28.6-34.4)] and 18 years [38.4 (33.2-40.03)] (p<0.001).
Conclusions: The results highlight the need to design and implement specific strategies that promote physical activity and the development of muscle capacity in the school environment in vulnerable schools, with special emphasis on the participation of girls.
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