Correlates of Physical Activity among Preadolescent Filipinos

Abstract

A resounding call for more contemporary research on the correlates of physical activity in low and middle-income countries has been documented over the years. It was, therefore, the aim of this study to examine the correlates of physical activity in terms of endurance, body mass index, and motivation. Study participants involved 257 students, specifically male (n=137) and female (n=120), ranging from 9 to 11 years old preadolescent Filipinos. The physical activity levels were determined by the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (PAQ-C), while the cardiorespiratory endurance was assessed by a 3-minute step test. A body mass index (BMI) was calculated and classified using the World Health Organization criteria. Both Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ) and the PAQ-C were used to measure motivation in physical activities. An interview was also conducted for data triangulation. This research yielded the following results: First, endurance (x1) had no direct positive effect on physical activity (y) (β=-.069). Second, BMI (x2) had no direct positive effect on Physical activity (y) (β=.023). Third, motivation (x3) had a direct positive effect on physical activity (y) (β=.237). Next, endurance (x1) had no direct positive effect on motivation (x3) (β=-.116). Subsequently, BMI (x2) had a direct negative effect on motivation (x3) (β =-.301). Finally, endurance (x1) had a direct positive effect on BMI (x2) (β =.515). Endurance-BMI was considered the most remarkable relationship, garnering the highest standard estimate score of .515. The results also showed that BMI (x1) positively affected endurance (x2). It suggests that higher levels of working heart rate are associated with higher BMI scores of overweight and obese Filipino preadolescents. They had a lower endurance level due to excess body weight.