Abstract
Background: This study examined associations between sports participation, physical activity, fitness level, and body mass index in ninth-grade girls. Methods: Data were analyzed for 221 participants who completed sports participation and physical activity recall questionnaires, an aerobic step test, and height and weight measurement. Results: On average, participants had low physical activity levels, and many were overweight or obese (47%). About half participated in at least one organized sport in the previous year. Sports participants had higher current estimated energy expenditure compared with non-sports participants (P = .0007). Those who participated on at least two teams were more likely to complete the three-stage step test without reaching their target heart rate than those who did not participate on any teams (P < .03). Past sports participation was positively associated with current physical activity and fitness levels. Conclusion: Urban adolescent girls who participate in sports have increased energy expenditure and higher fitness levels, indicating sports as a potential strategy to improve physical activity and health in this population.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 105-111 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Journal of Physical Activity and Health |
Volume | 6 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jan 2009 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- African American
- Energy expenditure
- Females
- High school
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Medicine(all)