Comparing the Anthropometric Characteristics and Physical Fitness of the School-Students with High and Low Levels of Physical Activity

Introduction: It is crucial to examine the impact of low or high engagement in physical activity (PA) on the development of anthropometric characteristics and physical fitness (PF) components in children. Objective: Consequently, this study aims to assess and compare the anthropometric characteristics and PF components among children with low and high levels of PA. Methods: In the present study, a descriptive-comparative method was employed. The statistical population for this research comprised all secondary school children enrolled in a regular school in Tehran in 2023. Through a convenience sampling technique, a total of 258 children (125 girls) aged between 10 and 14 were chosen as the participants of this study. Data was collected using standard questionnaires. The data was analyzed by SPSS-26 using t-test. Results: 58% of the children did not engage in PA during the week. No significant differences were between children with high and low PA in terms of anthropometric features (including arm length, leg length, and trunk length) (all P>0.05). However, children with high levels of PA had significantly higher levels of PF than those with lower levels of PA (P<0.001). Conclusions: This study underscore the significance of higher PA for children. Consequently, it is recommended for physical educators to integrate programs into their curricula that aim to enhance children’s PA.