PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND SEDENTARY BEHAVIOR IN 14-15 YEAR OLD STUDENTS WITH REGARD TO LOCATION OF SCHOOL

摘要

Decline in physical activity and the increased number of overweight and obese children are alarming. These factors can influence, together with the passive role of schools in lifestyle education and unhealthy urban planning, the future lifestyle of adolescents and adults. The main objective of this study was to analyze the physical activity and sedentary behaviors of adolescents aged 14-15 with regard to the size of the commuity where adolescents go to school. The short version of the "IPAQ" questionnaire was used to collect data in this study. The research was conducted in three selected regions of the Czech Republic. In each region, 3 schools were randomly selected. The research was carried out with all pupils of the ninth grade (aged 14-15) of selected schools. For data analysis we used basic statistical characteristics and binary logistic regression (SPSS). Based on the findings from the questionnaire, we have found that girls were significantly more likely to be sitting than boys. Children living in a middle-sized to large sized community, and living in an apartment, are significantly more likely to be sitting. Boys are still less "sedentary" than girls. Respondents who meet PA recommendations are also sitting more, usually based on the time needed for rest. The results of our study show that small communities offer better conditions to their inhabitants to be more physically active, however the differences between small and large locations are not that extensive.