Physical activity and fitness of VII-X grade rural and urban schoolchildren in Vilkaviskis region

The object of the research is physical fitness and physical activity of VII – Xth grade schoolchildren from urban and rural areas in Vilkaviskis region. The aim of the research is to evaluate physical fitness and physical activity of VII – Xth grade schoolchildren from urban and rural areas in Vilkaviskis region. The aim is reached within the fulfilment of the following objectives: 1.To investigate and compare physical fitness of VII – Xth grade schoolchildren in Vilkaviskis region according to the grade, gender and living area (rural vs. urban). 2. To evaluate and compare physical activity of VII – Xth grade schoolchildren in Vilkaviskis region according to the area (rural vs. urban) they live in. Conclusions: 1. It was found that physical fitness tests measuring flexibility, spead, explosive power of leg muscles were better performed by VII – Xth grade schoolchildren living in urban area of Vilkaviskis region, while static strength of arms and shoulder muscles is greater of rural area schoolchildren. Stomack muscle strength endurance is better of urban boys and girls living in rural area of Vilkaviskis region. According to the Eurofit reference tables, the best results were shown when measuring spead and agility components of physical fitness, the worst – the strength endurance of arms and shoulder muscles. 2. Analysing physical activity questionnaire data it was found that most of VII – Xth grade schoolchildren, living both in urban and rural area, spend 1-2 days per week 30-60 minutes per day for vigorous and moderate intensity physical activity at school. The schoolchildren of urban area of Vilkaviskis region spend slightly more time (i.e. 1-2 days per week up to 60 minutes per day) for vigorous and moderate physical activity during leisure time than schoolchildren of rural area. The schoolchildren of rural area of Vilkaviskis region spend more time on walking - 1-2 days per week 30-60 minutes per day. Schoolchildren of rural area state that they more often use the passive transportation (vehicle) – 3-4 days per week 10-30 minutes per day. Most of the respondents were not working in yard and garden vigorously or of moderate intensity, but 1-2 days per week 30-60 minutes per day had house chores of moderate intensity. Sitting time is on average 495 minutes per day for girls and 405 minutes per day for boys