Gender differences in leisure-time versus non-leisure-time physical activity among Saudi adolescents

Journal Title: Annals of Agricultural and Environmental Medicine - Year 2015, Vol 22, Issue 2

Abstract

Objectives. The aim of the study was to examine the gender differences and predictors of leisure versus non-leisure time physical activities among Saudi adolescents aged 14–19 years. Materials and method. The multistage stratified cluster random sampling technique was used. A sample of 1,388 males and 1,500 females enrolled in secondary schools in three major cities in Saudi Arabia was included. Anthropometric measurements were performed and Body Mass Index was calculated. Physical activity, sedentary behaviours and dietary habits were measured using a self-reported validated questionnaire. Results. The total time spent in leisure and non-leisure physical activity per week was 90 and 77 minutes, respectively. The males spent more time per week in leisure-time physical activities than females. Females in private schools spent more time during the week in leisure-time physical activities, compared to females in Stateschools. There was a significant difference between genders by obesity status interaction in leisure-time physical activity. Gender, and other factors, predicted total duration spent in leisure-time and non-leisure-time physical activity. Conclusions. The study showed that female adolescents are much less active than males, especially in leisure-time physical activities. Programmes to promote physical activity among adolescents are urgently needed, with consideration of gender differences.

Authors and Affiliations

Hana Al-Sobayel, Hazzaa Al-Hazzaa, Nanda Abahussain, Dina Qahwaji, Abdulrahman Musaiger

Keywords

Related Articles

Antimicrobial activity of two essential oils.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of essential oils in vitro for possible application to reduce the content of microorganisms in the air of animal houses. The essential oils of Cymbopogon ci...

Can selection explain the protective effects of farming on asthma?

[i][/i]Introduction and objective. Reduced asthma and allergy risks in farmers have been ascribed to microbial exposures. However, selection may also play a role and this was assessed in two Scandinavian farming populati...

Analyses of hospitalization of diabetes mellitus patients in Poland by gender, age and place of residence

Aim. The purpose of this study was to analyze the hospitalization of diabetes mellitus patients in Polish hospitals in 2005-2009.Materials and Methods. Data was taken from a nationwide database, kept at the National Inst...

Oral hygiene in children suffering from acute lymphoblastic leukemia living in rural and urban regions

Introduction and objective. During acute lymphoblastic leukemia treatment, oral [i]mucositis[/i] is a hugely important dental problem. In order to lower the risk of such complications, patients should take special care o...

Contamination of soil with eggs of geohelminths in recreational areas in the Lublin region of Poland

Recreational areas cover parks, bicycle paths, lawns, urban squares, sports complexes, holiday camp areas, playgrounds for children, beaches, and even spontaneously used green field open spaces. While using recreational...

Download PDF file
  • EP ID EP80971
  • DOI -
  • Views 125
  • Downloads 0

How To Cite

Hana Al-Sobayel, Hazzaa Al-Hazzaa, Nanda Abahussain, Dina Qahwaji, Abdulrahman Musaiger (2015). Gender differences in leisure-time versus non-leisure-time physical activity among Saudi adolescents. Annals of Agricultural and Environmental Medicine, 22(2), 344-348. https://europub.co.uk./articles/-A-80971