Physical Activity Level of Elementary and Secondary School Students in a Semi-Urban Area of North Greece

Authors

  • Christos Tsoulfas Democritus University of Thrace, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science
  • Andreas G. Avgerinos Democritus University of Thrace, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science
  • Antonios Kampas Democritus University of Thrace, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science

Keywords:

Physical activity, physical education, spare time, youth, Greece

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the physical activity (PA) level of young people of a semi-urban
area of North Greece. A sample of 600 young people [elementary (n=143), secondary (n=188) and high
school (n=269)] participated in the study. The data was collected with the Physical Activity and Life
Style Questionnaire. Data analyses revealed that 78.6% of the boys and 65.8% of the girls of
elementary school, 74.5% and 54.1% of middle school and 46.8% and 19% of high school fulfilled the
European PA guidelines for health. PA decreased considerably with age, especially for girls. A large
proportion of the participants in all age groups were not active enough to gain the health benefits and therefore they are prone to obesity and illnesses related to the sedentary lifestyle. These findings
support the implementation of intervention programmes aiming to promote an active lifestyle and
positive health behaviours.

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Published

2011-09-30

How to Cite

Tsoulfas Χ., Avgerinos Α. Γ., & Kampas Α. (2011). Physical Activity Level of Elementary and Secondary School Students in a Semi-Urban Area of North Greece. Inquiries in Physical Education and Sport, 9(2), 73–83. Retrieved from https://journals.lib.uth.gr/index.php/inquiries/article/view/1362

Issue

Vol. 9 No. 2 (2011)

Section

Articles

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