Author(s): Mohd. Sabir and Archana Chahal

Abstract:

The increasing academic burden and screen-based lifestyle among school-aged children have led to a decline in Physical Activity (PA) levels and Health-Related Physical Fitness (HRPF). This study examined physical activity patterns and HRPF components status among school children in Prayagraj. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 students (150 boys and 150 girls) aged 10-16 years from three schools of Prayagraj. Data were collected through health-related physical fitness tests measuring body composition (BMI), flexibility (Sit and Reach), cardiovascular endurance (600 Meter), muscular strength (Push Up), and muscular endurance (Sit Up) and structured questionnaires ((PA-HRPF-Q)) was used to acquired physical activity patterns. Descriptive statistics (mean, SD, and percentage distribution) were used for analysis. Results showed that 42% of the children had low physical activity levels, while only 20% engaged in vigorous activity. HRPF showed that BMI analysis revealed that 14% were underweight, 62% were normal, 20% were overweight, and 4% were obese. The mean of flexibility (22.8 cm), cardiovascular endurance (189.4 seconds), muscular strength (17.2 push-ups), and muscular endurance (21.5 sit-ups) were reported. Students acknowledged the importance of physical activities in terms of 42% of children fall in the low activity category, indicating insufficient engagement in daily physical activity. About 38% of the students reported moderate activity levels, while only 20% participated in high or vigorous activities. The results indicate that boys dominate outdoor sports participation (68%), while girls accounted for only 32% in this category. In contrast, girls showed higher participation in cardio activities (54%) and strength/flexibility exercises (59%), suggesting a preference for structured or rhythmic forms of physical activity. The correlation analysis presented that moderate to strong positive correlations were found for flexibility, muscular strength, and muscular endurance, indicating that students who engage more frequently in physical activity tend to perform better in these fitness components. The negative correlations observed for 600-meter run time and BMI suggest that higher physical activity is linked to better cardiovascular efficiency (lower run time) and healthier body composition.

The study concludes that despite positive attitudes, children are not physically active enough to maintain optimal HRPF.

DOI: 10.22271/kheljournal.2025.v12.i6i.4150

Pages: 600-605  |  151 Views  88 Downloads

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