Level of Physical Activity among Girl High School Students In Tarom County and Relevant Factors

Assessment of physical activity patterns and its influencing factors among adolescents for change in physical activity patterns is valuable. Considering the importance of physical activity among youth, the aim of this study was to assess the physical activity in girl school students in the Tarom in Iran and its relevant factors. In this cross-sectional study physical activity were assessed among 230 girl senior high school students in Tarom. The students were selected via classified multi-stage random sampling. Physical activity was evaluated by the standard, valid and reliable International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and pedometer to evaluate physical activity levels. Height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) were also measured. Subjects wore a pedometer throughout the day for one consecutive week, and average steps per day (physical activity volume) were measured. Data were analyzed through SPSS18 using Chi-squared test and Pearson Correlation Coefficient. Regarding the level of physical activity (Pedometer results), 32% of students were active and 68% inactive. The results of IPAQ showed that out of active individuals, 68% performed light, 28% moderate and 2% sever physical activity. There was only significant relationship between physical activity and father's jobs. In the case of level of mother and father’s education, mother's jobs and household income had no significant effect on the frequency of adequate physical activity. The results indicated that the level of physical activity was not sufficient among girl students. Therefore, it is necessary to have an education plan to educate girl students regarding life style modification.