Browsing Faculty of Community & Health Sciences by Subject "School children"
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Pillay, Tanushree; Frantz, Jose M. (Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, 2009)[more][less]
Abstract: Introduction: The increase in physical inactivity is thought to be one of the main risk factors for the development of diseases of lifestyle. This has highlighted the need for prevention and intervention programmes that are thought to assist in influencing the modifiable risk factors. Physical activity programmes have been proven to positively influence risk factors such us blood pressure and body mass index (BMI). Interventions by health professionals can assist in combating the problem. This study aimed to determine the effects of a short term physical activity programme on the BMI, body fat and blood pressure of high school learners in a local community in the Western Cape. Methods: The total number of learners who volunteered to participate in the study was 106. The study used a pre-test post-test design. The intervention programme was a 6 week programme run for 3 days per week for a period of 40 – 60 minutes per session. The intervention consisted of moderate to vigorous activities. Data was analysed by comparing learners who participated in the intervention and those who did not. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in this study. Results: Prior to the intervention it was found that 18% were found to be obese and at least 10% were hypertensive. Following the intervention it was reported that blood pressure as well as BMI and percentage body fat was influenced in positive way. Conclusion: One can conclude that, a short term physical activity intervention programme conducted three times a week with moderate activities can affect the BMI and blood pressure levels of adolescents. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10566/119 Files in this item: 1
PillayEffects2009.pdf (71.62Kb) -
Figaji, Tamara; Phillips, Julie (Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, 2010)[more][less]
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Although the health benefits of physical activity have been proven, many children and adolescents still do not meet the recommended guidelines for sufficient physical activity. The purpose of this investigation was thus to examine the levels of PA, and learners perception of support from teachers, family and friends at an independent school in the Western Cape. Furthermore, the investigation aimed to examine the influence of social support on physical activity. METHOD: A cross-sectional design using quantitative methods was used in this study, which included 100 learners in the senior phase of the school (i.e. grades 5 to 7). The data was obtained with a self-admininstered questionnaire. The data was analyzed with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0. The Chi-square test was used to explore associations between nominal and numerical data. The T-test was used to determine statistical significance between groups (independent t-tests) and within groups (paired sample t-test). RESULTS: Overall the sample responded positively when asked about support for physical activity from teachers. Furthermore, the study sample had a positive perception of both physical education (PE) and physical activity (PA) enjoyment. Boys participated in vigorous physical activity significantly more regularly than girls. CONCLUSION: As children are spending a considerable time at school, teachers, friends and parents should be encouraged to be supportive of their participation in physical activity. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10566/181 Files in this item: 1
FigajiPhillips2010.pdf (58.32Kb)
Now showing items 1-2 of 2