The influence of both physical activity level and nutritional habits on physical fitness in adolescents

Abstract

The physical activity and nutrition patterns have been changing. As direct consequences the rise of obesity and chronic diseases occurs. Children and adolescents are exposed to these factors and they need to be oriented and stimulated in order to adopt physical and nutritional activity habits favorable to health. Therefore, it is important to detect this profile, as well as to observe the influences on physical fitness. This study was carried out in Colégio de Aplicação Pedagógica (CAP) of UEM. The physical activity record (BOUCHARD et al., 1983) and the 24-hour dietary record for three days were applied, and the physical fitness tests described by Guedes & Guedes (1997) were adopted. The results showed that the physical activity levels and the intake of both energy and macronutrients of most subjects is below the recommended ones. The same was observed in relation to the following fitness components: strength, endurance, and aerobic ability. These findings provide evidence on the necessity of more observational studies and intervention programs in schools that emphasize health promotion.