Physical activity of Czech adolescents: Findings from the HBSC 2010 study

Abstract

Background: It is well described that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity improves the health status of children and adolescents. Thus, monitoring the levels of physical activity together with the motives to perform is critical for future programs aiming to enhance physical activity in youth and young adults in the Czech Republic and further afield in other Central and Eastern European nations that are in transition. Objective: The aim of this study is to provide basic overview about moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), vigorous physical activity (VPA) and motives to physical activity of Czech adolescents on the basis of gender and age group. Methods: Data from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study conducted in May–June 2010 in the Czech Republic. The sample consisted of 4,385 Czech pupils (48.5% boys; age 11, n = 418; age 13, n = 1,449; age 15, n = 1,518). Chi-square test of independence was used to provide basic comparison on basis of gender and age groups. Results: A substantial part of boys and girls are not participating in MVPA and VPA as recommended. MVPA and VPA among girls significantly decreased from age 11 to age 15. Boys compared to girls reported significantly more moderate-tovigorous and vigorous physical activities in all age groups, except 11 years old adolescents where the level of MVPA among girls and boys did not differ. Girls appear to be more influenced by social motives. Importance of these motives became higher with increasing age. Achievement motivation for physical activity is more important for boys and it also is increasing with age. Conclusions: Better understanding of the motives for physical activity as well as gender and age based differences in physical activity levels can significantly contribute to better planning of national and local intervention promoting active living