Current Physical Activity Levels Research Articles

Patient perspectives on digital health and physical activity in Parkinson’ disease: a brief research report

Background People living with Parkinson’s disease (PwP) typically have lower levels of physical activity (PA) which predisposes them to heart disease, reduced bone density and low exercise tolerance. Digital health has been shown to be effective at promoting PA in several clinical cohorts and monitoring PA in PwP. In addition, PwP have reported positive experiences with using digital health modalities such as smartwatches and telehealth. However, the perspectives of PwP on how best to use digital health to promote PA has yet to be investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate current levels of digital skills in PwP and the perspectives and opinions of PwP on the use of digital health for PA interventions. Methods Eighty-nine PwP living in Ireland completed a cross-sectional questionnaire looking at current levels of PA and self-reported levels of digital skills. Results The majority of participants believed that PA was beneficial for PwP and had a moderate to high level of digital skills. Important factors to consider when constructing a digital health PA intervention included ease of access, low cost, variety of exercises and physical activity options and a feedback function. Conclusion PwP have a moderate to high level of self-reported digital skills. This study provides useful information on factors that should be considered when constructing a digital PA intervention for PwP

The impact of early sports participation on body fatness in adulthood is not mediated by current physical activity.

The aim was to analyze the relationship between early sports participation (ESP) and body fatness (BF) in adults, as well as to identify whether this possible relationship is directly influenced by the current physical activity (PA) level. This cross-sectional study combined baseline data of two cohort. The BF estimated by DXA. The ESP, the subjects reported the engagement in sports during childhood (7-10 years) and adolescence (11-17 years) through two yes/no questions and current PA (described as steps) was device-measured using pedometers. Were identified as potential covariates and therefore adjusted the multivariate models: age, ethnicity, alcohol consumption, smoking, and sleep quality. Statistical analysis consisted of the chi-square test, analysis of variance/covariance, and structural equation modeling (software BioEstat version 5.0; p-value < .05). Adults engaged in ESP had lower BF; among women, the variance in BF explained by ESP was 25.5%; among men, it was 9.2%. Sports participation in early life (r = -.436 [95% CI: -0.527 to -0.346]) and current PA (r = -.431 [95% CI: -0.522 to -0.340]) were inversely related to BF, as well as positively related to each other (r = .328 [95% CI: 0.226 to 0.430]). In the mediation model, current PA partially mediated (18.5%) the impact of ESP on BF, while current PA and ESP remained relevant determinants of BF. Early sports participation and current PA have a significant impact on BF in adulthood, which is of similar magnitude and independent of each other.

Regular Exercise in Youth Anticipates Better Fitness in Older Age

ABSTRACT The increasing lifespan in our society emphasizes the importance of maximizing the well-being for older individuals. The objective of this research was to identify disparities in current physical fitness between older adults who engaged in regular exercise during their youth and those who did not. Additionally, the study aimed to determine the factors contributing to current levels of physical activity. This cross-sectional study involved a retrospective examination of the exercise habits of seniors. A total of 76 participants (35.5% male, aged between 60–80) underwent evaluation using the Fullerton Functional Fitness Test. The key findings of the study are as follows: 1. Seniors who consistently exercised during their younger years demonstrated superior physical fitness, including cardiorespiratory fitness. 2. Generally, individuals who engaged in exercise during their youth were more likely to maintain an active lifestyle in later life. 3. Current levels of physical activity were associated with regular exercise during youth and the absence of chronic diseases.

Physical activity and social interaction assessments in schoolyard settings using the System for Observing Outdoor Play Environments in Neighborhood Schools (SOOPEN)

BackgroundThe schoolyard environment provides key opportunities to promote physical activity and socioemotional development for children. Schoolyards can also serve as a community park resource outside of school hours. We aimed to: (i) implement and evaluate reliability of the System for Observing Outdoor Play Environments in Neighborhood Schools (SOOPEN), (ii) assess schoolyard use by children during recess and community members of all ages outside of school hours, and (iii) investigate relationships of schoolyard and children´s group characteristics with physical activity levels and prosocial interactions.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, we observed student and community visitor behavior using SOOPEN at three urban elementary schoolyards in Tacoma, Washington, USA, prior to renovations intended to expand each facility’s use as a community park in neighborhoods with poor park access. We assessed interrater reliability using intraclass correlation coefficients and described current levels of schoolyard use (at the group level), physical activity, and prosocial behavior. Physical activity was assessed on a five-point scale and dichotomized to indicate moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Social interactions were coded as prosocial, antisocial, or neutral. We examined associations of selected schoolyard features and group characteristics with group MVPA and prosocial behavior during recess using modified Poisson regression to estimate prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).ResultsWe observed a total of 981 activity-defined, informal groups in the schoolyards, and achieved good to excellent interrater reliability using SOOPEN. Community use of the schoolyards during evenings and weekends was limited (n = 56 groups). During 26, 25–50 min recess periods (n = 833 groups), 19% of groups were engaged in MVPA. Schoolyard areas with paved surfaces were associated with more MVPA (PR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.04, 2.23) compared to field/grass areas; supervised groups were associated with less MVPA than groups not directly supervised by an adult (PR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.36, 0.96). Schoolyard characteristics were not associated with prosocial behavior. Mixed-gender groups were associated with more MVPA and more prosocial behavior.ConclusionsOur study using SOOPEN, a reliable new activity observation tool, highlights the multi-dimensional dynamics of physical activity and social interactions in schoolyards, which could be leveraged to promote healthy behaviors during and outside of school hours.

Differences in physical activity behaviors between university women from metropolitan, micropolitan, and rural areas

Objective: Rural and emerging adult women report low physical activity (PA) levels. This study identified differences in current self-reported PA levels and perceived resources among US university women from metropolitan, micropolitan, and rural areas. Participants: Women were ages 18–24 y, full-time students who attended in-person university classes before COVID-19. Methods: They completed an online cross-sectional survey between July-September 2020 collecting demographic, university PA (via IPAQ), and perceived PA resource data. Results: Most participants reported metropolitan area high school (70.4%) and university (92.3%) attendance. Metropolitan participants did less job-related moderate PA during university (0.0 (0.0–360.0) MET-min) than rural (160.0 (0.0–1320.0) MET-min) participants. Metropolitan and micropolitan participants identified more high school community and natural resources than rural participants. Rural participants identified more university campus and community resources than metropolitan participants. Conclusions: University women reported similar levels of PA regardless of the rurality of their high school community.

Management of modifiable risk factors and comorbidities in atrial fibrillation: suggestions for improvement from a patient perspective

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): SLL Region Stockholm Innovation SLL Region Stockholm Klinisk Forskare. Background In patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), improved management of modifiable risk factors, unhealthy lifestyle and concomitant diseases is highly recommended by guidelines, in particular if rhythm control is desired. Yet, many AF patients have suboptimal management of risk factors and comorbidities. There is a lack of understanding how patients can be better aided to achieve these goals in clinical practice. Digital health solutions may offer support in this matter. Purpose To identify what patients with atrial fibrillation would find important in a digital tool aimed at optimization of modifiable risk factors and comorbidities. Methods This is a qualitative, descriptive study based on semi-structured interviews that were analyzed by manifest content analysis. 16 AF patients with recent in- or outpatient encounters were included (age 68 (52-78) years; 43% female; BMI 29.5 (20.4-35.8) kg/m2; paroxysmal/persistent AF (50%/50%); AF duration 7 (0-22) years). Four semi-structured focus-group interviews were conducted. Study results were intended to inform the development of a digital tool aimed to support risk factor and comorbidity optimization in patients scheduled for rhythm control interventions. Results Relevant comorbidities were hypertension (88%), heart failure (25%), diabetes mellitus type 2 (19%) and ischemic heart disease (13%). Only 19% stated that they were satisfied with their current level of physical activity and 19% were satisfied with their current eating habits. The participants’ suggestions were summarized into three main categories. First, person-centered information is essential, meaning that information should be customized, conveyed in an appropriate tone and include practical tips. Second, there is an unmet need for help with managing lifestyle habits in a way that is easily applicable in everyday life, and patients desire help with creating habits. Third, regular communication is necessary including inspirational reminders and motivational feedback. Conclusions From a patient perspective, person-centered information, practical help with managing lifestyle habits, and regular communication are considered essential in helping to optimize treatment of comorbidities and associates risk factors associated to lifestyle. This can, at least in part, be done digitally and should be implemented more in standard care to improve outcomes and reduce cost.

Does participation in therapeutic exercise programs after finishing oncology treatment still ensure an adequate health status for long-term breast cancer survivors? A ≥ 5 years follow-up study.

The aims of this study were to evaluate whether the effects of two therapeutic exercise programs are sustained over time (≥ 5 years) in long-term breast cancer survivors (LTBCS). Second, to determine the influence of the current level of physical activity (PA) performed on cancer-related fatigue (CRF) that these patients may present ≥5 years later. A prospective observational study was conducted with a cohort of 80 LTBCS in Granada during 2018. Firstly, considering their participation in one of the programs, they were allocated into two groups: usual care and therapeutic exercise program, to assess CRF, pain and pressure pain sensitivity, muscle strength, functional capacity, and quality of life. Secondly, they were also classified into 3 groups according to current level of weekly PA performed: ≤ 3, 3.1-7.4, and ≥ 7.5 (MET-hour/week) respectively, to assess its impact over CRF. Although the positive effects of the programs are not sustained over time, a trend toward significance can be observed for a greater reduction in overall CRF levels, lower intensity of pain in the affected arm and cervical region, and greater functional capacity and quality of life in the group that underwent therapeutic exercise. Additionally, 66.25% of LTBCS are inactive ≥ 5 years after completion of the program and furthermore, such inactivity is accompanied by higher CRF levels (P .013 to .046). The positive effects of therapeutic exercise programs are not maintained over time for LTBCS. Additionally, more than half of these women (66.25%) are inactive ≥ 5 years after completion of the program, this inactivity being accompanied by higher levels of CRF.

Physical literacy as a determinant of physical activity level among late adolescents.

This study aimed to investigate the level of physical literacy among late adolescents according to the current physical activity level and to examine the relationship between current physical activity, barriers to engaging in physical activity, and enjoyment of physical activity and physical literacy. A total of 568 university students (405 women) aged from 18 to 20 were involved in this study. The physical literacy, physical activity level, enjoyment from activity, and barriers to physical activity were assessed with the Perceived Physical Literacy Instrument (PPLI), the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF), Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES), and the Physical Activity Barriers Questionnaire (PABQ), respectively. Multinomial and binary logistic regression analyses were employed to explore the association between physical literacy and physical activity level. Highly physically active adolescents had better scores on the PPLI, PACES, and PABQ than moderately active and inactive participants. The PPLI total score was significantly moderately correlated with PACES total, positive, and negative scores and the PABQ score. There were significant poor correlations between the IPAQ-MET value and the PPLI scores. Adjusted logistic regression analysis revealed the PPLI total score and the PACES positive sub-scale scores, and gender (men) were associated with being highly active relative to moderately active. The findings highlight the evidence that physical literacy, gender, and enjoyment from activity can be determinants of high or moderate physical activity levels. Therefore, improving physical literacy among late adolescence may be key to achieving increased physical activity level.

Physical Activity Level amongst University Students and Lecturers across Majors and Programs in Indonesia

Background. Physical inactivity is the fourth leading risk factor contributing to the rapid increase in global mortality. The number is increasing in all sectors, with higher education institutions no exception. As university lecturers and students’ issues related to health and well-being are becoming more prevalent, the need to engage more time in doing physical activity becomes more important. The purpose of this study is to estimate the current physical activity level of students and lecturers across faculties and majors. Materials and methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 2698 students and 355 lecturers in November 2021. They completed an online Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) and reported the number of days and duration of activities they spent on studying or working, travelling, and recreational activities. All responses as to the duration were converted from hours into METs. Statistical analysis and data entry was performed using SPSS version 21. Results. A significant difference was found in METs scores between lecturers and students in three majors: Economics, Sports Science, and Science Education (p &lt; 0.05). Other findings showed that the PA level among students and lecturers was found in the moderate category, although the low level of physical activity was also higher. Lack of physical activity is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases and has a negative effect on the quality of life and mental health. Conclusions. Therefore, the university needs to carefully design policies and strategies to promote and enhance the physical activity and well-being of students, lecturers, staff, and all people involved.

Designing home-based physical activity programs for rural cancer survivors: A survey of technology access and preferences.

While technology advances have increased the popularity of remote interventions in underserved and rural cancer communities, less is understood about technology access and preferences for home-based physical activity programs in this cancer survivor population. To determine access, preferences, and needs, for a home-based physical activity program in rural cancer survivors. A Qualtrics Research Panel was recruited to survey adults with cancer across the United States. Participants self-reported demographics, cancer characteristics, technology access and usage, and preferences for a home-based physical activity program. The Godin Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ) assessed current levels of physical activity. Descriptive statistics included means and standard deviations for continuous variables, and frequencies for categorical variables. Independent samples t-tests explored differences between rural and non-rural participants. Participants (N=298; mean age=55.2 ± 16.5) had a history of cancer (mean age at diagnosis=46.5), with the most commonly reported cancer type being breast (25.5%), followed by prostate (16.1%). 74.2% resided in rural hometowns. 95% of participants reported accessing the internet daily. On a scale of 0-100, computer/laptop (M=63.4) and mobile phone (M=54.6) were the most preferred delivery modes for a home-based physical activity intervention, and most participants preferred balance/flexibility (72.2%) and aerobic (53.9%) exercises. Desired intervention elements included a frequency of 2-3 times a week (53.5%) for at least 20 minutes (75.7%). While there were notable rural disparities present (e.g., older age at diagnosis, lower levels of education; ps<.001), no differences emerged for technology access or environmental barriers (ps>.08). However, bias due to electronic delivery of the survey should not be discounted. These findings provide insights into the preferred physical activity intervention (e.g., computer delivery, balance/flexibility exercises) in rural cancer survivors, while highlighting the need for personalization. Future efforts should consider these preferences when designing and delivering home-based interventions in this population.

Association between Nutritional Intake Status and Appendicular Muscle Mass in Female University Students with a High Physical Activity Level*

This study investigated the association between nutritional intake and indices of muscle mass or strength in 104 female Japanese university students who participated in sports activities during their junior and senior high school periods and had a high current physical activity level (PAL). Body composition was measured by the bioelectrical impedance method, and appendicular muscle mass (AMM) and skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) were evaluated as muscle mass. PAL was estimated using a factorial method and nutritional intake status was investigated using a food frequency questionnaire based on food groups (FFQg). Grip strength was measured as an index of muscle strength. According to the criteria for diagnosis of sarcopenia, four of the participants had low muscle mass and one also had low grip strength. Although there were no significant differences in body size or grip strength between participants with a high versus low SMI, participants with a low SMI had a significantly higher percentage of body fat (27.7 ± 4.7% vs. 23.3 ± 4.1%), and significantly lower AMM (16.0 ± 1.4 kg vs. 20.6 ± 1.5 kg), total energy intake (1770.4 ± 386.5 kcal/d vs. 2017.1 ± 389.9 kcal/d), and protein intake (57.3 ± 15.0 g/d vs. 67.0 ± 14.2 g/d), as well as a tendency to have a significantly lower carbohydrate intake (239.6 ± 49.3 g/d vs. 268.1 ± 54.4 g/d), than those with a high SMI. These results indicate that even some female university students with a high PAL have a lower muscle mass and might have a low dietary intake, mainly protein and carbohydrate. The results of multiple regression analysis of AMM, SMI, or grip strength with PAL and nutrient intake revealed that PAL and total energy intake or protein intake were significantly and positively associated with muscle mass and strength. These results suggest that a high PAL as well as total energy intake and protein intake among the macronutrients contribute to high muscle mass and muscle strength in young women.

Safety and feasibility of cardiopulmonary exercise testing in head and neck cancer survivors.

Assess safety and feasibility of the cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) for evaluating head and neck cancer (HaNC) survivors. Also compare their cardiorespiratory fitness to age and sex-matched norms and establish current physical activity levels. Fifty HaNC survivors [29 male; mean (SD) age, 62 (8) years], who had completed treatment up to 1 year previously, were recruited. Participants performed a CPET on a cycle ergometer to symptom-limited tolerance. Participants completed a questionnaire to report contributory factors they perceived as influencing test termination. Physical activity levels were determined using a self-reported physical activity questionnaire. Three participants did not complete the CPET because (1) poor fitting mouthpiece and naso-oral mask due to facial disfiguration from surgery; (2) knee pain elicited by cycling; and (3) early CPET termination due to electrocardiogram artefacts. Participants reached a mean peak oxygen uptake that was 34% lower than predicted and the mean (SD) CPET duration of 7:52 (2:29) min:s was significantly lower than the target test duration of 10 min (p < 0.001). Leg muscle aches and/or breathing discomfort were major contributory factors influencing test termination for 78% of participants, compared to 13% for dry mouth/throat and/or drainage in the mouth/throat. No major adverse events occurred. Participants were categorised as 26% active, 8% moderately active, and 66% insufficiently active. These preliminary data suggest the CPET appears safe and feasible for most HaNC survivors when strict exclusion criteria are applied; however, low levels of cardiorespiratory fitness should be considered when calculating an appropriate ramp rate.

Recent Patterns of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Among Pregnant Adults in Canada

ObjectiveTo evaluate current levels of physical activity and sedentary behaviour among pregnant and non-pregnant adults in Canada. MethodsWe ascertained population-based cross-sectional data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS), 2015–2019, and the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS), 2007–2019. We included adults who were assigned female at birth and were of reproductive age (aged 18–55 years) living in the provinces. We analyzed activity data from validated questionnaires and accelerometers. ResultsWe included 53 765 adults from the CCHS and 5321 from the CHMS, weighted to represent 16 million people. Based on accelerometers, both pregnant and non-pregnant adults spent 9.5 hours per day (70% of their time) engaged in sedentary behaviour. Across all survey years, ages, and Canadian regions, pregnant adults, especially those aged under 35 years, spent less time engaged in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) compared with non-pregnant adults. Pregnant adults reported 34.3 minutes (95% CI 30.5–38.2) and objectively accrued 14.9 minutes (95% CI 7.9–21.8) in MVPA per day — 15.1 and 8.9 fewer minutes than non-pregnant adults, respectively. After accounting for self-report bias, only 27.5% (95% CI 24.1–31.0) of the pregnant and 41.1% (95% CI 40.4–41.9) of the non-pregnant adults met the Canadian physical activity guidelines (i.e., ≥150 minutes of MVPA per week). ConclusionPhysical activity levels are remarkably low among both pregnant and non-pregnant adults, with few meeting current guidelines. Given the substantial physical and mental health benefits, more support is needed to increase pre-pregnancy and prenatal activity in Canada.

Surveillance to improve physical activity of children and adolescents.

The global transition to current low levels of habitual physical activity among children and adolescents began in the second half of the last century. Low physical activity harms health in both the short term (during childhood and adolescence) and long term (during adulthood). In turn, low physical activity could limit progress towards several sustainable development goals, undermine noncommunicable disease prevention, delay physical and mental health recovery from the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, increase health-care costs and hinder responses to climate change. However, despite the importance of physical activity, public health surveillance among children and adolescents is very limited globally and low levels of physical activity in children is not on the public health agenda in many countries, irrespective of their level of economic development. This article details proposals for improvements in global public health surveillance of physical activity from birth to adolescence based on recent systematic reviews, international collaborations and World Health Organization guidelines and strategies. Empirical examples from several countries illustrate how improved surveillance of physical activity can lead to public health initiatives. Moreover, better surveillance raises awareness of the extent of physical inactivity, thereby making an invisible problem visible, and can lead to greater capacity in physical activity policy and practice. The time has arrived for a step change towards more systematic physical activity surveillance from infancy onwards that could help inform and inspire changes in public health policy and practice globally.

Association between Normal Weight Obesity and Skeletal Muscle Mass Index in Female University Students with Past Exercise Habituation.

This study investigated the relationship between normal weight obesity (NW-O) and skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) in 120 female university students who participated in sporting activities during junior and senior high school. The current physical activity level (PAL) was estimated by a factorial method using 24-h physical activity recall. The body mass index (BMI) of the participants ranged from 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m2; their body fat (BF) was classified as NW-O if above the 75th percentile (28.9% BF), normal weight and lean (NW-L) if below the 25th percentile value (21.0%BF), and all others were normal weight (NW). PAL was significantly lower in NW-O than in NW-L. SMI was significantly lower in NW-O than in NW and NW-L, and 60% of NW-O had Low-SMI (&lt;6.3 kg/m2). Although lower limb muscle mass was significantly lower in NW-O than in NW and NW-L, no significant differences were found in the upper limbs. These results suggest that the current PAL is associated with NW-O, and NW-O is associated with a lower SMI, even in young females with past exercise habits. Therefore, the prevention of NW-O in young females is important for the prevention of not only lifestyle-related diseases, but also future sarcopenia.

Self-regulation and healthy lifestyles: considering the future may increase current physical activity levels

ABSTRACT The present study examined whether people’s consideration of consequences (future vs. immediate consequences; CFC) can predict physical activity behaviour (PAB) and, to explore key mechanisms that may underline such association. To that end, participants (N = 128) filled in standardised measures of CFC and PAB, and questionnaires of health regulatory focus, attitude and intention as mediators of the CFC–PAB association. Regression analysis revealed that CFC-immediate was negatively associated with PAB, and that health regulatory promotion focus and intention were both positively associated with PAB. Mediation analysis revealed a significant effect of CFC-future via health promotion focus, attitude, and intention on PAB. Findings are discussed considering both susceptibility and buffering hypotheses. CFC-future buffers against self-control failure because it is associated with a promotion focus and with both more positive attitudes and stronger intentions towards PAB. Interventions promoting a physically active lifestyle should foster people to value and become aware of the future consequences of their actual PAB.

Physical Activity And Mental Health Of Parents Of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Raising a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is demanding, and parents of children with ASD are speculated to have challenges in mental health, such as anxiety and depression. Regular physical activity (PA) participation, such as meeting the 150 minutes per week moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) guideline, is recommended for physical and mental health benefits; however, little is known about the PA levels in parents of children with ASD. PURPOSE: To examine the current PA levels and mental health status (i.e., anxiety and depression) among parents of children with ASD. METHODS: A secondary data analysis was conducted using the 2018 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). We identified 139 parents of children with ASD (66.9% mothers; Mage = 41.19 ± 8.7) and 4470 parents of children with no disability (59.8% mothers; Mage = 38.82 ± 8.8). Their PA levels (meeting the 150 minutes per week MVPA guideline; frequency of light-to-moderate PA, vigorous PA, and strengthening PA), anxiety, and depression were analyzed. Weighted logistic and ordinal regression analyses were conducted on PA levels, anxiety, and depression between parents of children with ASD and parents of children with no disability, after controlling for age, sex, race, family income, and medication use for anxiety and depression. RESULTS: Parents of children with ASD were significantly less likely to meet the MVPA guideline compared to parents of children with no disability (50.7% vs. 58.8%; aOR = .729 p < .001). Meanwhile, parents of children with ASD had significantly lower odds in vigorous PA (aOR = .706, p < .001) and strengthening PA (aOR = .884, p < .001) but both groups were similar in light-to-moderate PA (aOR = 1.001, p > .05). Compared to parents of children with no disability, parents of children with ASD had two times and four times higher rates of experiencing daily anxiety and depression, respectively. Parents of children with ASD reported significantly higher odds of feelings of anxiety (aOR = 1.521, p < .001) and depression (aOR = 1.923, p = < .001). CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals the lower levels of PA and higher risks of anxiety and depression in parents of children with ASD. It underscores the need to provide PA and mental health support for this parent population in the United States. Supported by Office of Special Education Program: H325H190001

ROLE OF SMARTPHONES IN INCREASING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

In today's world, physical activity is gaining more importance, not only in academic community, but also with the general public. Nowadays, many students expect to see involvement of new technologies in school such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. The level of physical activity is very easily affected by various external influences such as smartphone apps, which may be ideal in increasing physical activity. Smartphone apps are considered motivational tools in increasing physical activity. The aim of the study was to analyse the role of smartphones in increasing physical activity in secondary school students. The study group was chosen purposively to meet the aim of the study. The following criteria applied: a) participants should not have health issues; b) participants should be from the same year of students. The group consisted of 113 secondary school students [(Male control group n = 30 (26.54 %); Male experimental group n = 25 (22.12 %); Female control group n = 30 (26.54 %); Female experimental group n = 28 (24.80 %)]. The current level of physical activity was detected by using the smartphone app - Samsung Health [(Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.; Suwon, the Republic of Korea; Android 5.17.1.003; iOS 1.5)]. Two 14-day challenges were created to increase physical activity in the participants. To determine the statistical significance of 2 control groups (n = 60, 53.08 %) and 2 experimental groups (n = 53; 46.92 %) we applied the Wilcoxon Signed-rank Test (Wtest p &lt; 0.01, p &lt; 0.05). To verify 4 independent study groups, we applied the Mann-Whitney U-test (Mwtest p &lt; 0.01, p &lt; 0.05). The material and practical significance was evaluated by using the effect size coefficient (r) (r = 0.10 - small, r = 0.30 - medium, r = 0.50 - large effect size). The first 14-day challenge resulted in improvements in both control and experimental groups of secondary school students (p &lt; 0.01). After 28-day challenge, we recorded the improvements in the female experimental group (p &lt; 0.01), male control and experimental groups (p &lt; 0.01) and female control group (p &lt; 0.05). When comparing the independent study groups, we recorded improvements, which were significant at 1.00 % and 5.00% level. Secondary school students are increasingly using smartphone apps routinely in more areas of their personal lives. Smartphone apps aimed at increasing physical activity are effective in helping secondary school students to achieve the required physical activity level. Our study provides evidence that the technique of challenges used in the smartphone app - Samsung Health significantly (p &lt; 0.01, p &lt; 0.05) increase the physical activity level of the secondary school students. According to our results, we recommend using the smartphone app - Samsung Health as a motivational tool in increasing the physical activity in secondary school students.

A cross-sectional study on the influence of COVID-19 pandemic on physical activity patterns among residents in a South Indian City

BackgroundStudies have revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic has increased sedentary behavior and reduced the number of physical activities in public. The present study attempted to assess the changes in physical activity patterns among the residents of a south Indian city at different stages after the COVID-19 outbreak.The present cross-sectional prospective study was conducted on 372 participants between November 2020 and March 2021. The physical activity patterns before, during, and after the lockdown phase were collected using a custom-built questionnaire, and the current level of physical activity was recorded using the international physical activity questionnaire–short form (IPAQ-SF).ResultsHigher number of respondents reported limiting the intensity of physical activities during and after lockdown [(228/372; 61.29%) and (216/372; 58.06%), respectively]. Additionally, respondents reporting lower physical activity intensity [mean total metabolic equivalents of task (MET)/week: 1182.80] compared with (99/372; 26.61%), and (63/372; 16.93%) numbers of participants who engaged in moderate (mean total MET/week-3005.86) and high levels (mean total MET/week-4188.67) of physical activities respectively.ConclusionsThe results of the study reported immediate and long-term impacts on self-reported physical activity patterns among the study sample.

Physical activity paradox: could inflammation be a key factor?

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to test the extent to which physical activity performed during work and leisure is associated with systemic inflammation.MethodsData regarding job history and high-sensitivity C...