Physical Activity in Children Aged 8-9 Years

Oral Presentation

Abstract

Physical activity provides significant physical, mental and social benefits. In children participation in physical activity is associated with improved musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and mental health systems, including the reduction of anxiety and depression. The study aims to support the assessment of physical activity in school-age children. During the months of April-May 2021 we conducted a transversal study with children aged 8-9 years. A transversal (cross-sectional) study was undertaken which included primary sampling units in 16 public schools and 747 pupils. All data analysis was performed using the statistical package SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 20.0) and M. Office. Excel 2010. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to estimate the linear relationships of numerical variables, where they were considered statistically considerable values p≤0.05. Reported 26.1% of children are involved in physical activity 3-4 days a week. Boys do more physical activity per week compared to girls. Three in four children aged 8-9 spend more hours a week watching TV or video. In our study it was found that boys perform more physical activity compared to girls, and the level of physical activity decreases with age.