Sustainability

2024

Jump to: 2022, 2021, 2020

13 pages, 599 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship between Physical Activity Levels, Quality of Life, and Sociodemographic Attributes among Adults in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia: A Direction toward Sustainable Health

by Maaidah M. Algamdi and Hamad S. Al Amer

Sustainability 2024, 16(18), 8243; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16188243 - 22 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1360

Abstract

Physical activity (PA) improves quality of life (QOL), yet the relationship between PA, QOL, and sociodemographic factors in Saudi Arabia remains underexplored. This study examined this relationship among 369 adults from Tabuk City, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire measured PA levels and QOL using [...] Read more.

Physical activity (PA) improves quality of life (QOL), yet the relationship between PA, QOL, and sociodemographic factors in Saudi Arabia remains underexplored. This study examined this relationship among 369 adults from Tabuk City, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire measured PA levels and QOL using the Arabic versions of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), respectively. Data analyses included chi-square, Mann–Whitney U, and Kruskal–Wallis H tests alongside a multivariate regression analysis. Among the SF-36 scores, marital status (p = 0.005), history of chronic diseases (p = 0.004), and medication use (p = 0.001) showed significant differences; pain (80.6 ± 21.5) and energy/fatigue (63.0 ± 18.5) scored highest and lowest, respectively; and sex was significantly associated with PA levels (p = 0.001). The average total SF-36 score was 69.5 ± 15.7, and 42.5% of participants reported low PA. Participants with moderate PA had significantly higher SF-36 scores (p = 0.003), energy/fatigue (p < 0.0001), emotional wellbeing (p = 0.009), and general health (p = 0.004) scores compared with those with low PA. The significant association between PA and QOL underscores the need for sustainable health programs to enhance and maintain PA in alignment with the Saudi Vision 2030 QOL program. It can also inform the development of targeted interventions to enhance PA levels and improve QOL aspects within communities, considering specific sociodemographic attributes to ensure effectiveness and inclusivity. Full article

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20 pages, 6074 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy of Physical Activity Interventions among University Students

by Fang Yuan, Sanying Peng, Ahmad Zamri Khairani and Jinghong Liang

Sustainability 2024, 16(4), 1369; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16041369 - 6 Feb 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2414

Abstract

Inadequate physical activity (PA) among university students, a growing concern, hinders their holistic health development and the formation of healthy habits. Current evidence regarding the impact of interventions to promote PA in this group remains inconclusive. Through a systematic review and meta-analysis, this [...] Read more.

Inadequate physical activity (PA) among university students, a growing concern, hinders their holistic health development and the formation of healthy habits. Current evidence regarding the impact of interventions to promote PA in this group remains inconclusive. Through a systematic review and meta-analysis, this study aims to evaluate the efficacy of PA interventions in promoting PA among university students. A search of six electronic databases up to 30 June 2023 was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing PA interventions in university students. Thirty-one RCTs were included for systematic review and meta-analysis. The eligible studies’ quality was assessed via the Cochrane Collaboration tool for evaluating the risk of bias. The results indicated a significant increase in total PA (TPA), moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), and step counts at post-intervention compared to control groups, with effect sizes approaching large for MVPA and an increase of 19,245 steps per week. TPA also showed significant improvements during follow-up periods from three weeks to 12 months. Subgroup analyses revealed significant intervention effects across all subgroups, with the subgroups of post-COVID and sample sizes ≤100 showing larger effect sizes within their respective group. This review identified that interventions could enhance TPA, MVPA, and step counts among university students, with sustainable effects on TPA, while further research is needed for other outcomes. The university environment is conducive to PA interventions, and future interventions integrating e-health with in-person modes, coupled with matched theories and behavior change techniques, show promise. This review protocol has been registered on the platform of the International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO, CRD42023486749). Full article

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2022

Jump to: 2024, 2021, 2020

16 pages, 1220 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of 12 Weeks of Physical-Cognitive Dual-Task Training on Executive Functions, Depression, Sleep Quality, and Quality of Life in Older Adult Women: A Randomized Pilot Study

by Marcelo de Maio Nascimento, Paula Andreatta Maduro, Pâmala Morais Bagano Rios, Lara dos Santos Nascimento, Carolina Nascimento Silva, Matthias Kliegel and Andreas Ihle

Sustainability 2023, 15(1), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15010097 - 21 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2483

Abstract

This study aims to examine the effects of 12 weeks of physical-cognitive dual-task training on cognition, depression, sleep quality, and quality of life in older women (n = 44; 66.20 ± 4.05 years). Of these, 22 were randomly allocated to the dual-task training [...] Read more.

This study aims to examine the effects of 12 weeks of physical-cognitive dual-task training on cognition, depression, sleep quality, and quality of life in older women (n = 44; 66.20 ± 4.05 years). Of these, 22 were randomly allocated to the dual-task training (DT) group, and 22 participated in the activities of the education control group (CG). Assessments were performed at baseline, at the end of 12 weeks of intervention, and after 12 weeks of follow-up using the following instruments: Trail Making Test parts A and B, ΔTMT (B-A), Stroop test parts A, B, C, and ΔStroop (C-B), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), sleep quality (PSQI), quality of life (SF-36). The results showed a positive and significant time-group interaction for two cognitive domains (TMT and Stroop). No time-group interaction effect was indicated for depression and sleep quality perception. There was a positive and significant interaction effect between time and group for three SF-36 subcategories (physical function, physical role, and general health). Our training protocol was not able to improve depressive symptoms and sleep quality. On the other hand, DT training was able to promote the performance of executive functions and the physical and mental component summary of the quality of life with lasting effects of up to 12 weeks after the intervention. Full article

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15 pages, 4438 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Exercise and Social Interaction in Different Natural Environments on the Mental Health of Urban Residents

by Yating Song and Xuefei Lin

Sustainability 2022, 14(21), 14095; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142114095 - 28 Oct 2022

Viewed by 3114

Abstract

Background: Together with the rapid development of China’s economy, the number of urban residents suffering from depression and psychological disorders has been increasing as a result of the general increase in life stress. As a consequence, this study investigates the effects on [...] Read more.

Background: Together with the rapid development of China’s economy, the number of urban residents suffering from depression and psychological disorders has been increasing as a result of the general increase in life stress. As a consequence, this study investigates the effects on users’ mental health through exercise and social interaction in three different outdoor natural landscapes, and provides theoretical and practical guidance for urban landscape planning and design. Methods: In this study, pre- and post-DASS21 (depression, anxiety and stress) data were obtained by using the DASS21 scale (used to assess depression, anxiety, and stress) to test a population of users performing simple exercise and social interactions in three natural environments, and the data scale values were statistically analyzed using SPSS. Results: (1) In the natural outdoor environment within the community, there was a relationship between the outdoor environment and perceived atmospheric temperature, with (single) and (group) perceived outdoor temperatures in the community having smaller effects on the mood of community residents; (2) After analyzing the data by descriptive statistics (p < 0.05), it was found that there was a slight change in the mean scores both before the participants climbed Yuelu Mountain and after they reached the summit; the mean scores of stress, anxiety, and depression decreased after they reached the summit, and the condition improved; (3) There was a slight change in the mean of both scores before the departure to and after the return from the Tongguan Kiln attractions, with a slight improvement in the condition after the return of the stress and depression mean scores. Conclusions: Enhancing social relationships through exercise and social interaction in a natural environment in different populations significantly increases the benefits for mental health (depression, anxiety, and stress) and assists recovery from stress-related mental disorders. Different landscape types and landscape attribute characteristics have different effects on urban residents’ preferences and mental health. Rich natural landscapes, providing green exercise environments, and t social interactions have positive effects on the mental health of urban residents. Especially in environments where the change in altitude is around 200 m, climbing is very beneficial to psychological emotions. Full article

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14 pages, 704 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Differences in Physical Activity Preferences and Practices among High versus Low Active Adolescents in Secondary Schools

by Karel Frömel, Dorota Groffik, Michal Kudláček, Michal Šafář, Anna Zwierzchowska and Josef Mitáš

Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 891; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020891 - 13 Jan 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2614

Abstract

This study aimed to (a) identify the differences in the preferred, practiced, and organized physical activity (PA) between high and low physically active Czech and Polish boys and girls and to (b) identify which types of PA are likely to be recommended by [...] Read more.

This study aimed to (a) identify the differences in the preferred, practiced, and organized physical activity (PA) between high and low physically active Czech and Polish boys and girls and to (b) identify which types of PA are likely to be recommended by low active boys and girls. The research was carried out between 2010 and 2019 in the Czech Republic and Poland and included 6619 participants aged 15 to 19 years. The preferences and practices of the different types of PA and participation in organized PA were identified using a PA preference questionnaire and weekly PA was identified using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-long form. Czech and Polish boys and girls who were low active preferred less physically demanding and more health-oriented PA compared with high active individuals. Power exercises and participation in organized PA are the most significant predictors of achieving at least 3 × 20 min of vigorous PA per week among low active individuals in both countries. Monitoring the trends in the preferred and practiced types of PA among boys and girls is crucial for the effective promotion of PA to low active boys and girls and positive changes in physical education and school health policy. Full article

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2021

Jump to: 2024, 2022, 2020

9 pages, 272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Activity Dimensions Differentially Predict Physical and Mental Components of Health-Related Quality of Life: Evidence from a Sport for All Study

by Andreas Ihle, Bruna R. Gouveia, Élvio R. Gouveia, Boris Cheval, Marcelo de Maio Nascimento, Lúcia Conceição, Priscila Marconcin, Miguel Peralta, Gerson Ferrari, Duarte Oliveira and Matthias Kliegel

Sustainability 2021, 13(23), 13370; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132313370 - 2 Dec 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3066

Abstract

The present cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between different dimensions of physical activity (PA) (i.e., work, sport, leisure) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) (i.e., overall, physical component, mental component) in an adult lifespan sample of 381 active individuals (age range: [...] Read more.

The present cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between different dimensions of physical activity (PA) (i.e., work, sport, leisure) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) (i.e., overall, physical component, mental component) in an adult lifespan sample of 381 active individuals (age range: 18–88 years; 38.8% men), while controlling for important covariates in terms of sex, age, education, and health profile regarding medical history. HRQoL was assessed using the 12-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12). Usual (i.e., previous 12 months) PA was assessed during face-to-face interviews using the Baecke questionnaire. Hierarchical regression analyses showed in Step 1 that the three PA dimensions work, sport, and leisure (entered simultaneously) together predicted 8%, 10%, and 4% of the variance in SF-12 total score, SF-12 physical component, and SF-12 mental component, respectively. In the final model, adjusting for sex, age, education, and health profile regarding medical history, sport emerged as the only PA dimension predicting SF-12 total score and the SF-12 physical component. In conclusion, health-policy targets at the community level should include the promotion of lifelong engagement in PA, especially sport, to allow the sustainability of HRQoL across the lifespan of our society. Full article

13 pages, 313 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Motivation and Perceived Motivational Climate by Adolescents in Face-to-Face Physical Education during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Carlos Mata, Marcos Onofre, João Costa, Madalena Ramos, Adilson Marques and João Martins

Sustainability 2021, 13(23), 13051; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132313051 - 25 Nov 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2965

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted adolescents’ lives, leading to unprecedented changes in their routines, especially in education. Face-to-face physical education (PE) classes during COVID-19 were affected in organization, possibly conditioning students’ participation, motivation and learning. Based on the achievement goal and self-determination theories, the [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted adolescents’ lives, leading to unprecedented changes in their routines, especially in education. Face-to-face physical education (PE) classes during COVID-19 were affected in organization, possibly conditioning students’ participation, motivation and learning. Based on the achievement goal and self-determination theories, the aim of this study was to analyze and compare the motivational indicators of adolescents in face-to-face PE classes during COVID-19, according to gender, educational level and physical activity (PA). A total of 1369 students participated in the study (621 boys and 748 girls; mean age: 14.4 years; SD: 1.74). Data were collected via an online questionnaire and analyzed using MANCOVAs adjusted for age, pre- and post-COVID-19 PA, socioeconomic status and BMI (Z-score). Differences in achievement goals, motivational climate and motivational regulation levels were found in different groups by gender, PA and educational level, favoring older and more active participants. A more positive motivational profile was found for girls in general and, specifically, for active boys, regarding more self-determined motivations and mastery goal orientations. Overall, this study’s findings suggest that the restrictions related to face-to-face PE classes during the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on students’ motivation. Full article

22 pages, 719 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Barriers and Facilitators for the Romanian Older Adults in Enjoying Physical Activity Health-Related Benefits

by Constanta Urzeala, Veronica Popescu, Daniel Courteix, Georgeta Mitrache, Mihaela Roco and Silvia Teodorescu

Sustainability 2021, 13(22), 12511; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132212511 - 12 Nov 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2691

Abstract

Older adults are considered a vulnerable category within the population, which is exposed to an accelerated risk of functional degeneration. The purpose of this study was to explore different facilitating factors and possible existing barriers to being physically active in older age in [...] Read more.

Older adults are considered a vulnerable category within the population, which is exposed to an accelerated risk of functional degeneration. The purpose of this study was to explore different facilitating factors and possible existing barriers to being physically active in older age in urban areas of Romania. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 172 participants who were asked to assess their health, on a scale from 1 to 3, and to fill out two questionnaires: 1. Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly; 2. Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale. Participants were also asked to specify to what extent they performed different leisure activities during the last week. SPSS was used for data analysis. The chi-squared test, t-test, ANOVA, and MANOVA emphasised the differences between participants, at p < 0.05. Regarding health condition, 27.3% of participants responded that their health was good, 53.5%—satisfactory, and 19.2%—not so good. The results showed significant differences between older adults participating in Elderly Clubs and non-participants, only in terms of PASE leisure. There were significant multivariate effects of the variables Gender and Stable life partner regarding PASE leisure. Weak negative correlations were identified between leisure physical activities and emotional state. Among the proposed leisure activities, watching TV and listening to music represented the most frequent preferences of the participants. The older adults participating in this study preferred to become involved with different physical activities, in conjunction with their habits, health, age, sex, stable life partner, and Elderly Club participation. Full article

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12 pages, 345 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Subjective Perceptions and Their Characteristics of Middle School Students Regarding the Effectiveness of the “0th Period Physical Education Class” in South Korea: The Q Methodology Application

by Wonjae Jeon, Goomyeung Kwon and Kihong Joung

Sustainability 2021, 13(21), 12081; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132112081 - 1 Nov 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1922

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore the subjective perception types and characteristics of Korean middle school students regarding participation in the “0th period physical education class”, a class involving physical movement that takes place before the start of regular school classes [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to explore the subjective perception types and characteristics of Korean middle school students regarding participation in the “0th period physical education class”, a class involving physical movement that takes place before the start of regular school classes in the morning. This goal was achieved by applying the Q methodology, which can categorize the subjective viewpoints of research participants. The selection of the final 25 Q-samples was done by composing the Q-population. Twenty middle school students were selected as the P-sample, and Q-sorting was performed on them. The PQ method program (version 2.35) was used to perform centroid factor analysis and varimax rotation. The study presented five types with a total variance of 87%. Types 1 to 5 (N = 4, 4, 4, 5, and 3) pertained to a potent means of enhancing lesson concentration and academic performance, efficient activities to improve physical ability and a healthy body image in adolescence, the motivating power behind a stable school life and sociability development, building an upright character and successful changes in daily life, and raising awareness of the importance of participating in sports and the importance of physical activity, with eigenvalues (EVs) of 3.89, 4.48, 3.96, 5.16, and 2.58, respectively, and explanatory variances of 0.10, 0.22, 0.13, 0.33, and 0.09, respectively. Moreover, consensus statements for each factor were demonstrated as being Q24 and Q25. The findings in this study supported the academic foundation for the official introduction and activation of “0th period physical education classes” in the Korean education community for the near future. Full article

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12 pages, 279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Activity and Body-Mass-Index: Do Family, Friends and Teachers Restrain the Risk for Physical Inactivity in Adolescents?

by Denise Renninger, David Joseph Sturm, Adilson Marques, Miguel Peralta, Stevo Popovic, Jovan Gardasevic, Bojan Masanovic and Yolanda Demetriou

Sustainability 2021, 13(13), 6992; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13136992 - 22 Jun 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2899

Abstract

Background: The present study investigates the role of different sources of social support in the relationship of BMI and PA in an international sample of children and adolescents. Methods: Data included 170,211 adolescents (51.5% female), aged 10–16 (M = 13.6, SD = 1.64) [...] Read more.

Background: The present study investigates the role of different sources of social support in the relationship of BMI and PA in an international sample of children and adolescents. Methods: Data included 170,211 adolescents (51.5% female), aged 10–16 (M = 13.6, SD = 1.64) from 37 European countries/regions and were retrieved from the 2013/14 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) international database. Results: PA levels in adolescents are lower for girls, decrease with age, and are lower for overweight and obese adolescents compared to underweight and normal-weight adolescents. Peer support and teacher support significantly predict PA (OR_peer = 1.11; OR_teacher = 0.97) and vigorous PA frequency (OR_peer = 1.13; OR_teacher = 0.94). Family support only affected vigorous PA frequency (OR = 1.03). Family support had a moderating effect on PA in overweight (OR_{family*BMI(overweight)} = 0.94) and obese (OR_{family*BMI(obese)} = 0.90) adolescents. Peer support had a moderating effect on vigorous PA frequency in obese (OR_{peer*BMI(obese)} = 1.08) adolescents. Teacher support had a moderating effect on PA (OR_{teacher*BMI(normal)} = 1.05; OR_{teacher*BMI(overweight)} = 1.09) and vigorous PA frequency (OR_{teacher*BMI(normal)} = 1.07; OR_{teacher*BMI(overweight)} = 1.08) in normal-weight and overweight adolescents. Conclusion: Social support helps adolescents to be active. Especially for obese adolescents, support by and relations with peers are important to reach a significant amount of PA. Full article

5 pages, 213 KiB

Open AccessHypothesis

Active Commuting: An Opportunity to Fight Both Climate Change and Physical Inactivity

by Nuno Figueiredo, Filipe Rodrigues, Pedro Morouço and Diogo Monteiro

Sustainability 2021, 13(8), 4290; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13084290 - 12 Apr 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3503

Abstract

Global health, climate, and ecological conditions cannot be dissociated, and over the last decade, the impacts of climate change on health have been profoundly felt. In 2010, the transport sector has been responsible for the direct emission of 6.7 Gt of carbon dioxide [...] Read more.

Global health, climate, and ecological conditions cannot be dissociated, and over the last decade, the impacts of climate change on health have been profoundly felt. In 2010, the transport sector has been responsible for the direct emission of 6.7 Gt of carbon dioxide (CO₂), and these numbers are expected to double by 2050. Additionally, physical inactivity rates have been growing over the last years, with most individuals in developed countries still relying on their cars for daily transportation, despite the unexplored potential of daily commuting in the promotion of physical activity. Given the well-known link between chronic diseases and sedentary lifestyles, addressing both the upward tendency of public health costs and energy consumption obtained from fossil fuels can be, possibly, one of the greatest public health opportunities over the last century. In this paper, we explore the potential of active commuting as a contemporary approach to address both global issues, considering its benefits on several indicators of health, quality of life, and well-being, as well as environmental-friendly behaviors. Full article

10 pages, 231 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Perceived Hapkido Service Quality on Exercise Continuation and Recommendation Intentions, with a Focus on Korean Middle and High School Students

by Tae-Seung Park, Jun-Su Kim and Jiyoun Kim

Sustainability 2021, 13(6), 3389; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13063389 - 18 Mar 2021

Viewed by 1965

Abstract

This research analyzes the impact of quality of service as perceived by Hapkido students on their exercise continuation and recommendation intentions. It also identifies measures to reduce the rate of student dropout, strengthen competitiveness, and create more efficient marketing strategies for consumer patterns [...] Read more.

This research analyzes the impact of quality of service as perceived by Hapkido students on their exercise continuation and recommendation intentions. It also identifies measures to reduce the rate of student dropout, strengthen competitiveness, and create more efficient marketing strategies for consumer patterns that are rapidly diversifying Hapkido. A questionnaire survey method was conducted with 300 middle and high school students, aged 14–19 years, with between three months and two years of Hapkido training in Incheon and Bucheon during March and April 2019. Frequency, factor, reliability, correlation, and standard multiple regression analyses were conducted on the surveyed data. The study concludes that, first, considering the impact of service quality on exercise continuation intention, service quality positively affects reliability, personification, and perceptual openness; in terms of possibility, it positively affects typicality, personification, and perceptual openness; and in terms of reinforcement, it positively affects reliability and perceptual openness. Second, regarding the impact of service quality on recommendation intention, it positively affects reliability, personification, and perceptual openness. Third, exercise continuation intention positively affects recommendation intention. This study suggests that various efforts should be made to increase the reliability, tangibility, confidence, and empathy of the service quality to increase the exercise continuation and recommendation intentions of the trainees of Hapkido gymnasiums. Full article

15 pages, 1353 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Choreographic Group-Based Fitness Classes Improve Cardiometabolic Health-Related Anthropometric Indices and Blood Lipids Profile in Overweight Sedentary Women

by Yaira Barranco-Ruiz and Emilio Villa-González

Sustainability 2021, 13(2), 972; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13020972 - 19 Jan 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2765

Abstract

Background: Choreographic group-based fitness classes are the most common type of physical activity practiced by women, being a viable and sustainable strategy to improve general health. Thus, the aim of this study was to analyze the effect of a 16-week healthy lifestyle program, [...] Read more.

Background: Choreographic group-based fitness classes are the most common type of physical activity practiced by women, being a viable and sustainable strategy to improve general health. Thus, the aim of this study was to analyze the effect of a 16-week healthy lifestyle program, based on choreographic fitness classes, on cardiometabolic health-related anthropometric indices and metabolic blood profile among overweight sedentary women. Methods: A total of 50 overweight (Body Mass Index = 27.68 ± 1.19 kg/m²) middle-aged women (39.73 ± 7.41 years) were randomly assigned to an experimental exercise group based on structured choreographic fitness classes (CFC) with the Zumba Fitness program (3 days/week; 60 min/session) (CFC = 30) or a non-exercise control group (CG = 20). The anthropometric indices (waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, a body shape index, conicity index, abdominal volume index, and body adiposity index), blood pressure, glycemia, and blood lipid profile [triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL), High Density Lipoprotein (HDL)] were evaluated pre- and post-intervention. Results: 40 participants competed the pre/post measures. Post-intervention, the CFC group (n = 25) presented a significant improvement in all anthropometric indices as well as in TG, HDL, and LDL as compared with the CG (n = 15). Conclusion: A 16-week healthy lifestyle program based on structured choreographic fitness classes with the Zumba Fitness program (3 days/week; 60 min/session) could significantly improve cardiometabolic health-related anthropometric indices and the blood lipid profile in overweight sedentary middle-aged women. Full article

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2020

Jump to: 2024, 2022, 2021

9 pages, 939 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Fitness Predicts Subsequent Improvement in Academic Achievement: Differential Patterns Depending on Pupils’ Age

by Élvio Rúbio Gouveia, Bruna Raquel Gouveia, Adilson Marques, Helder Lopes, Ana Rodrigues, Miguel Peralta, Matthias Kliegel and Andreas Ihle

Sustainability 2020, 12(21), 8874; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12218874 - 26 Oct 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2693

Abstract

We investigated the longitudinal relationship between physical fitness (flexibility, functional strength, and running speed-agility components) and subsequent change in academic achievement across one school year. We also examined whether this longitudinal relationship differed as a function of pupils’ age, controlling for sex, body [...] Read more.

We investigated the longitudinal relationship between physical fitness (flexibility, functional strength, and running speed-agility components) and subsequent change in academic achievement across one school year. We also examined whether this longitudinal relationship differed as a function of pupils’ age, controlling for sex, body mass index, and socioeconomic status. Academic achievement in terms of marks in Portuguese and mathematics was recorded from 142 pupils (M = 14.59 years; SD = 1.99, range 11–18), between autumn 2017 and summer 2018. The physical fitness components, including flexibility, functional strength, and running speed-agility, were assessed at the baseline (i.e., at the beginning of the school year). Latent change score modelling revealed that higher physical fitness level at baseline significantly predicted a subsequent improvement in academic achievement across the school year. This longitudinal relationship was significantly stronger in younger compared to older pupils. Physical fitness and its interaction with age predicted 45.7% of the variance in the change in academic achievement. In conclusion, a better physical fitness profile including flexibility, functional strength, and running speed-agility explains a subsequent improvement in academic achievement. This longitudinal relationship seems to be age-dependent. Full article

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10 pages, 402 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Moderators of Change in Physical Activity Levels during Restrictions Due to COVID-19 Pandemic in Young Urban Adults

by Josip Karuc, Maroje Sorić, Ivan Radman and Marjeta Mišigoj-Duraković

Sustainability 2020, 12(16), 6392; https://doi.org/10.3390/su12166392 - 8 Aug 2020

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 7549

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate moderators of change in physical activity (PA) levels after 30 days (30-d) of restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic in young adults. This research is an extension of the CRO-PALS study and analyses for this study were performed [...] Read more.

This study aimed to investigate moderators of change in physical activity (PA) levels after 30 days (30-d) of restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic in young adults. This research is an extension of the CRO-PALS study and analyses for this study were performed on young adults (20–21 y.o., n = 91). Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), sport participation, student and socioeconomic status were assessed pre- and post-30-d restrictions. Differences in MVPA levels were examined using repeated-measures ANOVAs. After 30-d of restrictions, the drop in MVPA in females (−64.8 min/day, p = 0.006) and males was shown (−57.7 min/day, p < 0.00). However, active participants decreased, while non-active peers increased their MVPA level (−100.7 min/day, p < 0.00, and +48.9 min/day, p = 0.051, respectively). Moreover, students and non-students decreased their MVPA level (−69.0 min/day, p < 0.00, and −35.0 min/day, p = 0.22, respectively) as well as sport participants and non-sport participants (−95.3 min/day, p < 0.001, and −53.9 min/day, p < 0.00, respectively). Our results suggest that 30-d of restrictions equally affect females and males where the evident drop in MVPA is seen in both genders. However, active people decreased their PA level during lockdown and the opposite pattern was seen in non-active peers, where restrictions for them can represent an opportunity to change their behavior in a positive direction in order to gain better health status. Full article

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