Original scientific paper

Relationships between physical activity, self-perceived and actual indicators of fitness in adolescents

Toivo Jürimäe ; Faculty of Exercise and Sport Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
Vaido Rego ; Faculty of Exercise and Sport Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia

Abstract

The aim of this study was to estimate the relationships between physical activity, self- perceived fitness and actual indicators of fitness in adolescents from Estonia. In total, 161 16 - 18-year- old adolescents were measured: 69 boys and 92 girls. The self-perceived fitness and body composition were assessed using a slightly modified version of a questionnaire by Delignieres et al. (1994) and it is well described by Lamb and Haworth (1998). In addition, physical activity index (PAI) of the children according to Telama et al. (1996) was calculated. Body composition was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis (Bodystat-500, UH). The following EUROFIT (1988) tests were used to measure the motor ability of the children: sit-and-reach, handgrip dynamometry and 20m endurance shuttle-run. The boys perceived their endurance better than the girls (r=0.65 and r=0.48, respectively). Strength was perceived significantly by the boys (r=0. 34) and the girls (r=0.26). Flexibility was also perceived significantly by the boys (r=0.42) and the girls (r=0.55). The girls perceived their body composition better than the boys (r=-0.47 and r=-0.38, respectively). The physical activity index correlated better with the self-perceived than the actual indicators of motor ability. However, the actual and perceived body composition did not depend on the level of physical activity. In conclusion, the results of our investigation indicated that adolescents significantly perceived their basic motor abilities (endurance, strength, flexibility) and body com- position.

Keywords

physical activity; self-perception; motor ability; adolescents

Hrčak ID:

225434

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/225434

Publication date:

18.12.2002.

Article data in other languages: german croatian

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