Abstract
The aim was to analyze the extent to which anthropometric values, in line with body image and physical ability, predict physical self-concept, and the latter, in turn, predicts the practice and intention to pursue physical activity. A total of 302 participants, 150 males and 152 females were recruited from different primary schools in Extremadura (Spain). The age of the participants ranges from 10 to 13 years old (M = 11.74; SD = 0.86). The indirect effects of the model showed significant relationship between physical condition (p = 0.001) and PA levels, according to the perception of self-concept [β = 0.231, 95% BcCI = (0.055, 0.212)]. However, anthropometric variables proved not to be related to any significant extent (p < 0.05). The second level covered the indirect effects between the intention to be physically active and self-concept, which showed a significant relationship between the perception of self-concept (p = 0.000) and the intention to be physically active. Last, the third level showed significant relationships between physical condition (p = 0.001) and the intention to pursue physical activity. The present investigation concluded that physical condition, anthropometric variables, and body image predict the perception of physical self-concept in adolescents. Finally, this article highlights the importance of body image perception, anthropometric values, and physical condition in the intention of being physically active. In addition, it highlights the mediating role of physical self-concept to develop physical activity.
Highlights
Adolescence is characterized by being a stage in which major biological and psychological changes take place that define what a person will be like in adulthood [1]
Studies show a decline in physical activity (PA) during this stage [2, 3], and this is a cause for concern given the physical and psychosocial benefits gained from doing PA [4], such as improvements in cardiovascular fitness, anthropometric values, bone structure, reduction in symptoms associated with depression and anxiety, and an improvement in psychological well-being
The global score regarding the perception of selfconcept has a significant negative relationship with all those variables that refer to anthropometric values (BMI, waist–height perimeter), body image, and levels of physical condition, except for resistance
Summary
Adolescence is characterized by being a stage in which major biological and psychological changes take place that define what a person will be like in adulthood [1]. Self-Concept and Physical Activity characterized by being a critical period in the development of the body image and one’s perception of physical self-concept, whereby poor development of these constructs may give rise to problems linked to depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and imbalances in the perception of the body image and self-concept [5,6,7]. In this respect, Casas et al [8] stress the importance of detecting any factors that may contribute to an improvement in mental health in young people, drawing attention to the influence of body weight. There is no clear evidence of physical exercise in body image in the case of the female gender [16]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
