The comparison of Physical Competencies (Self-report and Objective) and Nutritional Attitude among Active and Inactive Women

The purpose of this study was to survey and compare physical competencies (self-report and objective) and nutritional attitudes among active and inactive women. A sample of 100 adult women from Tabriz was selected for this study. They were divided into two homogeneous groups: an active group (n=50) and an inactive group (n=50). Cluster sampling was used to select the participants. The variables of this study were measured using the Eating Attitude Test (EAT-26), the short form of the physical self-descriptive questionnaire developed by Marsh et al. (PSDQ-S), three physical readiness tests, and body mass index. Independent t-tests were used to compare eating attitudes and physical self-perception between the two groups. MANOVA was used to compare the subscales of these variables. Paired-samples t-tests were used to compare the Z scores of objective and subjective physical-motor fitness. The results showed that the active group had significantly lower rates of eating disorders (P=0.0001), higher mean scores of physical self-perception (P=0.001), higher levels of physical readiness (P=0.0001), and a stronger correlation between objective and subjective physical-motor fitness. Based on the significant differences found in the results, it can be concluded that physical activity can be effective in reducing eating disorders and promoting positive and realistic physical self-perception in adult women.