Physical Activity Level among School Going Children in Surat  City, Gujarat: A Cross Sectional Survey

Authors

Physical activity, PAQ-C, School children

Background: Physical inactivity in children and adolescents is a major issue in public health. Physical

activity (PA) is a best predictor of cardiovascular, skeletal, and mental health in children and adolescents,

yet contemporary youth, and especially girls, are often insufficiently active. However, PA levels in children

of Surat city, Gujarat has been less explored. So present study was undertaken. Methodology: A Cross

sectional survey was conducted on 82 children from 3 different schools of Surat city using self -reported

PAQ-C (Physical Activity Questionnaire -Children) in last seven days to measure PA after obtaining

permission from school authorities. Anthropometric measures and self-reported socio-demographic data

were also recorded. Descriptive statistics were used to depict the characteristics of the study population and

PA levels. Results: Mean PA level amongst children was 2.55 (SD=0.60). PA level in girls (2.24, SD=0.73)

was significantly lower than in males (2.67, SD=0.67), (p<0.05). 82% (n=66) of students fell in low PA

group (PA score <3). PA declined with increasing age (r= -0.17, p<0.05).Conclusion: Inadequate PA was

reported among children. The present study even suggested that children should be engaged in more amount

of PA which will help in reducing the health risks.

Salvi Shah1 , Shraddha Diwan2

Ph.D. Schola,r (Gujarat University, Ahmedabad), Assistant professor, SPB Physiotherapy, College, Surat, India, 2 Ph. D. Guide (Gujarat University, Ahmedabad), Lecturer, SBB Physiotherapy College, V.S.hospital, Ahmedabad, India