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Objective: To explore the relationship between severities of acne with age, body mass index (BMI) and physical activity index (PAI) of the patients. Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional design. Acne patients were recruited through quota sampling across Faculties of a University, 120 subjects met the inclusion requirements and gave individual consent; however, only 105 completed the study. A 25 cm2 quadrant, Global Acne Grading Scale (GAGS), Kaiser Physical Activity Survey (KPAS) and BMI apparatus were used to measure: acne lesion count and density, facial distribution and severity, PAI, and BMI, respectively. Multiple regression, and Spearman’s correlation were used for inferential statistical analysis. Results: Subjects’ characteristics were: age (22 ± 4 years), BMI (25.3 ± 3.5), PAI (2.5 ± 0.4) and 5 ± 1.7 acne eruptions per 25 cm2 of face. Multiple regression showed that age, BMI and PAI significantly predicted acne severity, F (3,101) = 4.272, p = 0.012, R2 = 0.293. Conversely, only age (ρ = -0.513, p = 0.002, CI = 99%) had a significant (inverse) relationship with acne severity; there is no significant relationship between acne and BMI (ρ = 0.034, p = 0.846, C.I = 95%) or PAI (ρ = -0.313, p = 0.067, CI = 95%). Conclusion: Age of subjects had a significant correlation with acne severity. However, BMI and PAI had no significant relationship with acne.

El objetivo de este estudio ha sido conocer los índices de práctica de actividad físico-deportiva escolar, voluntaria y en su tiempo de ocio en escolares con edades comprendidas entre los 10-12 años, así como las diferencias en relación al género. Participaron 1009 estudiantes de educación primaria de los cuales, 507 eran niños y 502 niñas; Medad = 10.85, DE = 0.79 que se encontraban escolarizados en distintos centros de Galicia (España). En los resultados se han encontrado diferencias estadísticamente significativas en función del género en el índice de actividad física escolar (p < 0.001) y en el índice de práctica de actividad física voluntaria (p < 0.001), siendo más altos en niños que en las niñas. También se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en cuento a la edad (p, The aim of this study has been to know the rates of practice of school physical activity, voluntary and leisure time in schoolchildren aged between 10-12 years, as well as differences in relation to gender. 1009 primary school students participated, of which 507 were boys and 502 girls; Mage= 10.85, SD = 0.79 who were enrolled in different centers in Galicia (Spain). In the results, statistically significant differences were found according to gender in the school physical activity index (p, Portuguese national funds through the FCT (Foundation for Science and Technology) within the framework of the CIEC (Research Center for Child Studies of the University of Minho) project under the reference UIDB/00317/2020

El objetivo de este estudio fue establecer la percepción frente a la realización de actividad física en estudiantes de primaria en relación con sus compañeros de clase en el centro escolar y práctica deportiva voluntaria. Participaron 1009 estudiantes de educación primaria de los cuales, 507 eran niños y 502 niñas; Medad = 10.85, DE = 0.79 que se encontraban escolarizados en distintos centros de las provincias de Lugo, A Coruña, Ourense y Pontevedra (Galicia, España). Se ha encontrado una asociación directamente proporcional entre el género y la percepción que tienen los escolares sobra la práctica deportiva voluntaria de sus compañeros (p < 0.001), así como una relación directamente proporcional entre el género y la percepción de la práctica e implicación deportiva en el centro escolar, existe una asociación significativa con el género (p < 0.001). Las niñas perciben que sus compañeros de clase del sexo opuesto practican más actividad física que ellas tanto de manera voluntaria cómo en el centro escolar. Respecto a las franjas de edad, no hay diferencias en la percepción de práctica de actividad física., The objective of this study was to establish the perception in front of the realization of the physical activity in the students of primary education in relation with the classmates in the educational center and the voluntary sport practice. 1009 elementary school students participated, of which 507 were boys and 502 girls; Mayne = 10.85, SD = 0.79, and they were studying in schools in the provinces of Lugo, A Coruna, Ourense and Pontevedra (Galicia, Spain). We found a directly proportional association between gender and the perception that schoolchildren have about the voluntary sports practice of their peers (p, Portuguese national funds through the FCT (Foundation for Science and Technology) within the framework of the CIEC (Research Center for Child Studies of the University of Minho) project under the reference UIDB/00317/2020

The acquisition of an active lifestyle in childhood and adolescence help it to be maintained in adult life. For this reason, it is essential to know the current situation of the number of schoolchildren who are active in their free time, both at school and when they are going to school. Therefore, the objective of this study has been to know the rates of children school physical activity practice, voluntary and leisure time in schoolchildren aged between 10 to 12 years, by gender. Participants were primary school children (n=1009), aged between 10 t0 12 years old, (boys=507; girls= 502); average age = 10.85, SD = 0.79 who were enrolled in different centres in Galicia (Spain). Statistically significant differences were found according to gender in the school physical activity index (p, Portuguese national funds through the FCT (Foundation for Science and Technology) within the framework of the CIEC (Research Center for Child Studies of the University of Minho) project under the reference UID/CED/00317/2019.

The study is aimed at determining the relationship between the index of physical activity and the motivation toward school tasks of Primary Education students. To this end, a descriptive, quasi-experimental design was employed. The instruments used for the study included PAQ-C and the Questionnaire on students’ motivation toward their studies. Among the results, it should be noted that Primary Education students’ motivation toward their studies is high, although the level of physical activity is relatively low for this age group. The level of physical activity is higher in boys than girls. The level of motivation, as well as achievement motivation, and causal attributions of achievement are higher in girls, but self-efficacy is higher in boys. The higher the level of physical activity practice, the higher the level of motivation toward their studies, but also the higher the achievement motivation, causal attribution and self-efficacy. Children with greater obesity levels have less motivation. According to these results, it is important to design actions that encourage the regular practice of physical activity, especially among girls. This should be done in different contexts, beyond the subject of Physical Education and in different populations. Interventions should take into account family and environmental factors, or the local environment and its resources.

The aim of the study is to investigate the physical activity index on female university students. Depending on the results, measures for educational programmes meant to promote an active lifestyle will be taken. By a self-administered questionnaire, the physical activity index was investigated in university students (n 472). After applying the formula for physical activity index, we have obtained 34.745% sedentary subjects, 33.474% subjects with a poor physical condition, 13.347% active and healthy ones, and 11.440% and 6.991% with high and very good physical condition. Our research demonstrated the existence of poor and very poor physical condition in university female students and we recommended an improvement through educational programmes promoting an active lifestyle and wellbeing.

Mestrado em Fisioterapia Introduction: Physiotherapy develops, maintains or restores movement and function, thus maintaining people physically active and with adequate physical condition is one of its main objectives. Therefore, normative values are necessary for the various components of health-­‐related physical fitness (HRPF), for the correct prescription of exercise in healthy or not healthy populations. Objective: To contribute to the establishment of normative values of the measures most commonly used in physiotherapy to assess HRPF in Portuguese adolescents, examining gender-­‐specific differences and the relationship between HRPF and physical activity (PA). Methods: A cross-­‐sectional study was conducted. Socio-­‐demographic, anthropometric data and vital signs were collected in adolescents (12-­‐17 years old). Their PA levels were assessed using the "Physical Activity Index" (PAI). HRPF was assessed through: body mass index (BMI), incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT), hand-­‐held dynamometry (HHD), modified sit-­‐and-­‐reach test (MSRT) and timed up and go (TUG). Results: One hundred and forty one adolescents participated (71 males). The mean and its 95% confidence intervals obtained for each test were: BMI 58.95 [54.12 – 63.77] percentile; ISWT 1251.19 [1199.25 – 1303.13] meters; HHD 21.04 [19.67 – 22.41] Kilograms; MSRT 38.09 [34.58 – 41.60] centimeters; TUG 4.31 [4.05 – 4.58] seconds. Male adolescents presented better performance in HRPF tests than females, except for BMI. Adolescents had moderate PA levels and, the higher these levels, the better were the results in three of the HRPF tests (ISWT; MSRT; TUG). Conclusion: Findings are a contribution to the development of normative values for HRPF tests in Portuguese adolescents. Higher levels of PA were associated with better HRPF results. Enquadramento: A fisioterapia promove, mantém ou restaura movimento e funcionalidade. Assim, um dos seus principais objetivos consiste em manter indivíduos ativos e com uma condição física adequada. Para isso são necessários valores normativos relativos às várias componentes da condição física relacionada com a saúde, para a adequada prescrição de exercício em populações saudáveis ou com patologia. Objetivo: Contribuir para o desenvolvimento de valores normativos dos testes mais utilizados na fisioterapia para avaliar a condição física em adolescentes Portugueses, analisando as diferenças entre género. Explorou-­‐se também a relação entre estes valores e o nível de atividade física (AF) dos adolescentes. Métodos: Um estudo transversal foi realizado em colaboração com duas escolas da região de Aveiro. Dados sociodemográficos, antropométricos, clínicos, sinais vitais e dados de função pulmonar foram recolhidos para caracterizar a amostra. Os níveis de AF foram avaliados através do “Physical Activity Index”. A condição física relacionada com a saúde (CFRS) foi avaliada através de: índice de massa corporal (IMC), teste de marcha com carga progressiva (TMCP), dinamometria manual (DM), teste modificado de sentar e alcançar (TMSA) e teste de levantar e ir (TLI). Resultados: Cento e quarenta e um adolescentes (n=141) participaram neste estudo (71 rapazes) com uma média de idade de 14.33±1.34 anos. As médias e intervalos de confiança a 95% obtidos em cada teste foram: IMC 58.95 [54.12 – 63.77] percentil; TMCP 1251.19 [1199.25 – 1303.13] metros; FMQ 21.04 [19.67 – 22.41] quilogramas-­‐força; TMSA 38.09 [34.58 – 41.60] centímetros; TLI 4.31 [4.05 – 4.58] segundos. Os adolescentes do sexo masculino obtiveram melhores resultados nos testes de CRFS que os do sexo feminino, à exceção do IMC. Os resultados do PAI mostram que os adolescentes têm uma AF moderada e que, quanto maior a sua pontuação neste questionário, melhores os resultados em três dos testes de CFRS (TMCP; TMSA; TLI). Conclusão: Os valores obtidos neste estudo são uma contribuição para o desenvolvimento de valores normativos para estes testes. Confirma-­‐se que níveis mais elevados de AF estão relacionados com melhores resultados de CFRS.

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Mestrado em Fisioterapia Background: Currently, under half of the adolescents reach recommended daily levels of physical activity (PA). It is known that higher levels of PA lead to higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and therefore, a health-related CRF criterion value could contribute to identify the target population for primary cardiovascular disease prevention. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the relation between PA levels and CRF factors in healthy adolescents. Methods: A cross-sectional exploratory study with healthy adolescents aged 12-18 years old was conducted. Socio-demographic and body composition data were collected using a questionnaire. PA level was scored with the Physical Activity Index (PAI) and CRF assessment included lung function (LF) measured with spirometry and exercise tolerance measured with Incremental Shuttle Walking Test (ISWT). According to PAI scores the sample was divided in two groups: 1 (sedentary, low and moderately active); 2 (vigorously active (VA)). Descriptive statistics were applied to characterise the sample. Independent sample t-tests assessed differences between groups and simple logistic regressions identified the predictors of being VA. Results: The study included 115 adolescents (14.63±1.70 years old; 56.52% female). Adolescents presented a normal body mass index=21.19±3.14 Kg.m-2) and LF (forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1)=105.58±12.73% of the predicted). Significant differences were found between groups in height (G1–163.44±8.01; G2–167±8.65; p=0.024), LF (FEV1/ forced vital capacity (FVC); G1–97.58±10.66; G2–94.04±8.04; p=0.049), ISWT distance (G1– 1089.81±214.04; G2–1173.60±191.86; p=0.038); heart rate (HR) at rest (G1– 84.61±13.68; G2–79.23±13.81; p=0.038), HR at the end of the best ISWT (G1– 124.71±37.57; G2–133.54±33.61; p=0.041) and percentage of the maximal HR achieved during ISWT (G1–63.09±19.03; G2–67.53±17.08; p=0.043). Simple logistic regressions showed that height (OR–1.054; 95%CI 1.006-1.104), ISWT distance (OR–1.002; 95%CI 1.000-1.004) and HR at rest (OR–0.971; 95%CI 0.945-0.999) were predictors of being VA. Conclusions: Results suggest that more physically active adolescents have a better CRF profile. The findings suggest that PA is important to adolescents’ health status and it should be encouraged since childhood. Clinical practice will benefit from the use of PAI, ISWT and HR findings, allowing physiotherapists to use it for prescribing exercise. Introdução: Atualmente, menos de metade dos adolescentes cumpre os níveis diários recomendados de atividade física (AF). Sabe-se que níveis de AF mais elevados implicam melhor condição cardiorrespiratória (CCR) pelo que, um perfil da CCR pode contribuir para identificar a população-alvo para prevenção de doenças cardiovasculares e de promoção da saúde. Assim, o objetivo do estudo foi explorar a relação entre a AF e a CCR em adolescentes saudáveis. Metodologia: Realizou-se um estudo exploratório transversal com adolescentes (12-18 anos). Recolheram-se dados sociodemográficos e antropométricos através de um questionário. A AF foi avaliada com o índice de atividade física (IAF) e as medidas da CCR incluíram a avaliação da função pulmonar (FP) pela espirometria e da tolerância ao exercício pelo teste de marcha com carga progressiva (TMCP). Dividiu-se a amostra em 2 grupos: 1 (sedentários, pouco e moderadamente ativos); 2 (vigorosamente ativos (VA)) de acordo com o IAF. A estatística descritiva permitiu caracterizar a amostra. Foram utilizados testes-t de amostras independentes para verificar diferenças entre grupos e regressões logísticas simples para identificar os preditores de ser VA. Resultados: O estudo incluiu 115 adolescentes (14.63±1.70 anos; 56.52% género feminino) com índice de massa corporal =21.19±3.14 Kg.m-2 e FP (volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo (VEMS)=105.58±12.73% do previsto) normais. Houve diferenças significativas entre grupos na altura (G1– 163.44±8.01; G2–167±8.65; p=0.024), FP (VEMS/ capacidade vital forçada (CVF); G1–97.58±10.66; G2–94.04±8.04; p=0.049), distância percorrida no TMCP (G1–1089.81±214.04; G2–1173.60±191.86; p=0.038); frequência cardíaca (FC) basal (G1–84.61±13.68; G2–79.23±13.81; p=0.038), FC após o melhor TMCP (G1–124.71±37.57; G2–133.54±33.61; p=0.041) e percentagem da FC máxima (G1–63.09±19.03; G2–67.53±17.08; p=0.043). A altura (OR– 1.054; 95%IC 1.006-1.104), distância percorrida no TMCP (OR–1.002; 95%IC 1-1.004) e a FC basal (OR–0.971; 95%IC 0.945-0.999) demonstraram ser preditores de ser VA. Conclusões: Os resultados sugerem que adolescentes mais ativos têm melhor CCR e perfil cardiovascular. A AF é um fator importante para o estado de saúde dos adolescentes e deverá ser encorajada desde a infância. Na prática clínica, os fisioterapeutas poderão utilizar os dados da IAF, do TMCP e da FC para prescrever exercício.

Association between higher levels of physical activity and lower rates of obesity has been shown. The aim is to assess the relation between the prevalence of physical activity and the Physical Activity Index (PAI) of 300 Lebanese healthy adults, with age, gender, occupation, body mass indices and waist circumferences (WC). The cutoff points of WC for both genders were determined using the values of Body Mass Index (BMI). A cross-sectional study using self-reported valid questionnaire was conducted randomly on 150 men and 150 women, between 18 and 74 years, from Beirut region. Association between variables was performed using chi2, T-Test and ANOVA. Linear regression determined the WC cutoffs based on BMI. 22% of the population was obese with WC mean level of 92.47±14.4cm (87.71±14.4 cm for women and 97.24±12.96 cm for men). The prevalence of physical activity was 34% in overall population (27% in women and 40% in men).There was no significant association between BMI values and PAI (p< 0.085 for men and p< 0.300 for women). However there was an inverse association between WC values and PAI in both genders (p2 and ≥30 kg/m2 of 86 cm and 100 cm respectively, whereas for men it was 92.12 cm and 105 cm respectively. The prevalence of physical activity in Beirut is low with differences among genders. The highest physical activity index is associated with the decreased values of waist circumference.

Leisure-time physical inactivity is a global public health concern affecting all people in different walks of life, including employees. This inactivity is associated with chronic diseases of lifestyle as well as low work capacity. The purpose of this study was two-fold: to determine leisure-time physical activity (LTPAI), coronary risk- (CRI), health status (HSI) and lifestyle (LSI) indexes of some executive employees in selected African countries; and to determine the effect of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) on the coronary risk-, health status- and lifestyle- indexes of some executive employees in selected African countries.A cross-sectional study design was followed on a group of 156 (mean age 41.22±10.17) executive employees. Participants were grouped according to age ( 46 years). Standardized questionnaires were used to collect data. Out of 156 participants in the study, 43% occupied top level management and 57% middle level management positions. When data were analyzed according to age groups, 31% and 69% in the less than 35 years age group were in the top and the middle level management, respectively. In the age group 36 to 46 years of age, 47% were in the top level of management and 52.8% middle level management. With regard to LTPA, top level managers (71.6%) scored low LTPA as compared to middle level managers (62.9%). Top level managers scored higher percentages (14.9%) for developing the risk of coronary heart disease. The results show a negative effect of physical activity on selected health parameters, with significant negative relationships between low LTPA and daily lifestyle index (r= -0.52; p=0.01), and moderate LTPA and daily lifestyle index (r= -0.71; p

Thesis (MA (Biokinetics))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2013. Leisure-time physical inactivity is a global public health concern affecting all people in different walks of life, including employees. This inactivity is associated with chronic diseases of lifestyle as well as low work capacity. The purpose of this study was two-fold: to determine leisure-time physical activity (LTPAI), coronary risk- (CRI), health status (HSI) and lifestyle (LSI) indexes of some executive employees in selected African countries; and to determine the effect of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) on the coronary risk-, health status- and lifestyle- indexes of some executive employees in selected African countries.A cross-sectional study design was followed on a group of 156 (mean age 41.22±10.17) executive employees. Participants were grouped according to age ( 46 years). Standardized questionnaires were used to collect data. Out of 156 participants in the study, 43% occupied top level management and 57% middle level management positions. When data were analyzed according to age groups, 31% and 69% in the less than 35 years age group were in the top and the middle level management, respectively. In the age group 36 to 46 years of age, 47% were in the top level of management and 52.8% middle level management. With regard to LTPA, top level managers (71.6%) scored low LTPA as compared to middle level managers (62.9%). Top level managers scored higher percentages (14.9%) for developing the risk of coronary heart disease. The results show a negative effect of physical activity on selected health parameters, with significant negative relationships between low LTPA and daily lifestyle index (r= -0.52; p=0.01), and moderate LTPA and daily lifestyle index (r= -0.71; p

Darbo objektas – fizinio aktyvumo indekso ypatumai. Tyrimo probleminiai klausimai: Koks Lietuvos Kūno Kultūros akademijos pirmo kurso studentų fizinio aktyvumo indeksas? Ar skiriasi studentų-respondentų fizinis darbinio – laisvalaikio – sportinio aktyvumo indeksas? Ar skiriasi studentų-respondentų vyrų ir moterų fizinis darbinis – laisvalaikio – sportinis aktyvumas? Koks yra vyraujantis fizinis aktyvumas? Mūsų tyrimo tikslas – nustatyti LKKA pirmo kurso vaikinų ir merginų fizinį aktyvumo indekso ypatumus. Uždaviniai: 1. Nustatyti studentų darbinio fizinio aktyvumo indekso ypatumus pagal lytį. 2. Nustatyti pirmo kurso studentų sportinio fizinio aktyvumo indekso ypatumus pagal lytį. 3. Nustatyti pirmo kurso studentų laisvalaikio fizinio aktyvumo indekso ypatumus pagal lytį. 4. Išsiaiškinti pirmo kurso studentų vyraujantį kasdieninio fizinio aktyvumo indeksą. Tyrimas atliktas 2008 metais. Buvo tiriama 248 Lietuvos Kūno kultūros akademijos studentai (87 vaikinai ir 161 mergina). Tyrime naudojama Baecke kasdieninio fizinio aktyvumo klausimynas. Tiriamieji atrinkti taikant atsitiktinės imties metodą. Tyrimo metu taikytas anketinės apklausos raštu metodas. Anketa sudaryta iš aštuoniolikos teiginių su pateiktais galimais atsakymų variantais. Dalis teiginių buvo uždari (galima rinktis tiktais vieną iš pateiktų atsakymų variantų). Apklausiama buvo laikantis tiriamųjų anonimiškumo, informavimo apie tyrimo tikslą bei eigą principų. Tyrimas atliktas paskaitos gale, leidus dėstytojui. Tyrimo rezultatų analizė rodo, kad daugumos Lietuvos Kūno kultūros akademijos pirmo kurso studentų darbinis fizinis aktyvumas nėra didelio intensyvumo, dauguma studentų savo darbo vietose dirba sėdėdami, dar mažesnė dalis dirba vaikščiodami. Vaikinai ir merginos darbo metu retai kada kelia sunkius daiktus. Retai kada suprakaituoja ir po visų darbų nesijaučia labai pavargę. Vaikinai ir merginos ir apie pusė studentų respondentų mano, kad jų darbas, lyginant su tokio pačio amžiaus žmonėmis, yra vidutinio sunkumo. Lietuvos Kūno kultūros akademijoje tarp apklaustųjų pirmo kurso studentų beveik visi vaikinai sportavo, tik merginų tarpe buvo trečdalis, kurios neužsiminėjo jokia sportine veikla. Tarp sportuojančių studentų, daugiau laiko sportuodami praleisdavo vaikinai negu merginos, taip pat dvigubai daugiau vaikinų negu merginos užsiiminėjo ir kitomis sportinėmis veiklomis. Sportinio fizinio aktyvumo metu studentai vaikinai renkasi treniruoklius, antroje vietoje pagal populiarumą studentų tarpe užima krepšinis, po to seka atitinkamai futbolas, boksas ir lengvoji atletika. Merginos dažniau pasirenka tinklinį, po to plaukimą, pratybas sporto ir sveikatingumo klubuose, aerobiką, rankinį, lengvąją atletiką ir fitnesą. 49 proc. vaikinų ir 33 proc. merginų per savaitę sportuoja daugiau nei 4 val., o nuo 1 iki 2 val. Sportuojančių buvo 11 proc. vaikinų ir 21 proc. merginų. Taip pat nustatyta, kad 70 proc. vaikinų ir 53 proc. merginų daugiau kaip 9 mėnesius per metus praktikuoja sportinį fizinį aktyvumą, o nuo 1 iki 3 mėnesių sportuoja tik 4 proc. vaikinų ir 6 proc. merginų. Laisvalaikio metu save lygindami su kitais tokio pat amžiaus žmonėmis 52 proc. vaikinų ir 33 proc. merginų teigia, kad jų fizinis aktyvumas yra didesnis, o 16 ir 31 atitinkamai, kad toks pat. Sportuojant laisvalaikiu 64 proc. vaikinų ir 50 proc. merginų suprakaituoja labai dažnai ir dažnai. Vienas iš laisvalaikio praleidimo būdų yra įvairūs žaidimai, tokie kaip biliardas, boulingas ir kt. Šis paminėtas laisvalaikio praleidimo būdas tarp apklaustųjų studentų buvo, kad tik 5 proc. vaikinų ir 1 proc. merginų šiuos žaidimus laisvalaikio metu žaidžia visada. Dažnai taip pramogauja 27 proc. vaikinų, 26 proc. merginų, 37 proc. vaikinų ir 43 proc. merginų šiuos žaidimus kaip laisvalaikio praleidimo būdą renkasi kartais. Visiškai tokio laisvalaikio praleidimo būdo netoleruoja 5 proc. vaikinų ir 11 proc. merginų. Apklaustųjų studentų tarpe visada pasirenkančiųjų pasyvų laisvalaikio praleidimo būdą pvz. kaip televizoriaus žiūrėjimą buvo tiktais 2 proc. vaikinų ir tiek pat merginų. Dažnai prie televizoriaus leidžiančių laisvalaikį buvo 21 proc. studentų ir 25 proc. studenčių. 41proc. vaikinų ir 36 proc. merginų televizoriaus žiūrėjimą laisvalaikio metu renkasi kartais. Retai taip leidžia laisvą laiką, ar tiesiog jo neturi 34 proc. vaikinų ir 33 proc. merginų. Niekada tokio laisvalaikio praleidimo būdo nesirenka 2 proc. vaikinų ir 4 proc. merginų. Laisvalaikio metu tarp apklaustųjų Lietuvos kūno kultūros akademijos studentų pasivaikščiojimas yra populiarus tik tarp 1 proc. vaikinų ir tarp 6 proc. merginų, dažnai laisvalaikio metu važinėjančių dviračiu, pagal respondentų atsakymus buvo tik 4 proc. vaikinų ir 15 proc. merginų, daugiau kaip 45 minutes per dieną eidami praleidžia ketvirtadalis studentų. Taigi aukščiausias fizinio aktyvumo indekso vidutinis balas šių trijų veiklų buvo sportinės veiklos 3.19 balo vaikinų ir 2.9 balo merginų. Respondentų darbinės veiklos vidutiniai balai buvo mažiausi - 2.43 vidutinio balo vaikinų ir 2.3 vidutinio balo merginų. Laisvalaikio fizinio aktyvumo indekso balų vidurkis - 2.85 balo vaikinų ir 3.0 balai merginų. LKKA vaikinų fizinio aktyvumo indeksas yra 8.47 , o merginų - 8.1., Subject of the study: Particularities of the physical activity index. Problematic questions of the survey: What is the physical activity index of the first year students at Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education? Is there any difference in the work-related, leisure-related and sport-related physical activity indices of students-respondents? Is there any difference between physical activity work-related, leisure-related, sport-related physical activity indices of men and women? Which kind of physical activity is prevailing? Our objective of the survey: to establish the particularities of the physical activity index of first year students – men and women – at Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education. The tasks: 1. To establish the particularities of the work-related physical activity index of the students by gender. 2. To establish the particularities of the sport-related physical activity index of the first year students by gender. 3. To establish the particularities of the leisure-related physical activity index of the first year students by gender. 4. To find out the prevailing everyday physical activity index of the first year students. The survey was conducted in 2008. 248 students (87 men and 161 women) at Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education were surveyed. During this survey, a Baecke questionnaire for everyday physical activity was used. The surveyed were selected applying the random - set method. During the survey, a method of questioning by questionnaire in written form was applied. The questionnaire was composed of eighteen statements with given possible versions of answers. Some statements were closed type (only one answer was allowed to be chosen from all submitted versions of the answer). The questioning was performed under conditions of anonymity of the surveyed, information provision on survey objectives and its course. The survey was conducted at the end of a lecture, after the permission of the lecturer had been obtained. The analysis of the results of the survey has demonstrated that the work-related physical activity of the majority of first year students at Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education is not extremely intensive, mostly students are sitting in their working places, and very small number of them are working when walking. During their work time, the men and women rarely lift heavy objects. They perspire just occasionally and after all work has been completed, they do not feel themselves tired. The men and the women and approximately a half of the students-respondents think that their work, in comparison to the same age persons, is of average hardness. At Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education, among the first year students surveyed, almost all athletes-men were doing sports, and among women one third of them was not occupied with any kind of sports. Among those students who were doing sports, men were spending more time for sports activity than women, also twice as much men were doing additionally another kind of sports. During sport-related physical activity, the men chose training equipment first. Playing the game of basketball was in the second place, then went football, boxing and track-and-field athletics. The women more frequently chose the game of volleyball, then swimming, exercising at sport and fitness clubs, aerobics, handball, track-and-field athletics and fitness. 49 per cent of men and 33 per cent of women were doing sports for more than 4 hours per week. Among those who were doing sports for more than 1-2 hour time period per week, there were 11 per cent of men and 21 per cent of women. Also, it was established that 70 per cent of men and 53 per cent of women for over 9 months per year practised sports-related physical activity, and only 4 per cent of men and 6 per cent of women were doing sports for time period of 1-3 months per year. During leisure time, when comparing themselves with other people of the same age, 52 per cent of men and 33 per cent maintained that their physical activity was more intensive, and 16 and 31 respectively maintained that it was the same. During the sport-related leisure time, 64 per cent of men and 50 per cent of women perspired extremely frequently and frequently. Among the ways of spending leisure-related time, there were various games like snooker, bowling etc. Such kind of leisure time spending was chosen by only 5 per cent of men and 1 per cent of women surveyed. They always practised this kind of sports during their leisure time. Frequently such kind of entertainment was taken by 27 per cent of men, 26 per cent of women. 37 per cent of men and 43 per cent of women only occasionally chose that kind of sports for their leisure activity. 26 per cent of men and 19 per cent of women rarely chose such sports. And 5 percent of men and 11 per cent of women did not tolerate at all such kind of entertainment during their leisure time. Among the students surveyed, only 2 per cent of men and the same number of women always chose the passive way of leisure time spending, for example TV viewing. Those who frequently spent their free time in front of TV set, made 41 per cent of men and 36 per cent of women. Rarely spent time in front of the TV set 34 per cent of men and 33 per cent of women or possibly they did not have time for this at all. 2 per cent of men and 4 per cent of women never spent their free time in such manner. Among students-respondents at Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education the walking during leisure-related physical activity was popular only among 1 per cent of men and 6 per cent of women. According to the replies of students-respondents, among those who went cycling frequently during their leisure time there were only 4 percent of men and 15 per cent of women. More than 45 minutes per day one fourth of students spent walking. Thus, the highest average score of physical activity among those three activity forms was that of sport-related activity – 3,19 men’s score and 2,9 women’s score. The average scores of work-related activity were the lowest – 2,43 men’s average score and 2,3 women’s average score. The average score of leisure-related physical activity index was 2,85 men’s score and 3,0 women’s. The physical activity index of students-men at Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education is 8,47 and that of women – 8,1.

Research among ministers showed that they are experiencing high levels of stress due to career demands and having to cope with problems on their own (Grosch & Olsen, 2000:260). This has a detrimental effect on their health (Andrew, 1997:SO). Participation in physical activity have positive effects on the physical and psychological well being. Physical activity decrease work stress and increase work satisfaction and -stamina (Dreyer & Strydom, 1992:28). The objectives of this study was to determine the profiles of physical activity participation and the incidence of stress symptoms in relation to congregation type and congregation size in ministers, as well as the influence of physical activity on the relationship between stress symptoms and congregation demography (type and size). Congregation demography was divided into congregation type (location) as well as congregation size (number of church members). In this study a single cross sectional design that has been based on an availability profile has been used. The subjects were 340 ministers of the Dutch Reformed Church, who volunteered to participate in the study. The quality of participation in physical activity was determined with Sharkey's (1997:432) physical activity index The incidence of stress symptoms was determined with Burn's (1988) stress index and the congregation demography was determined by a self-reported questionnaire. The data was analysed by means of a one-way analysis of variance. From the data it is clear that the majority of the respondents were physically inactive and have a low incidence of stress symptoms in relation to congregation demography. The results of the stress symptoms may be attributed to the fact that religion and belief in God may play a vital role in the management of stress. Physical activity participation indicated a statistical significant (p≤0.05) influence on the relationship between stress symptoms and congregation demography. A highly practical significant difference (ES≥0.8) existed between high active and low active ministers working in congregations in rural areas. Physical activity participation also showed a moderate practical significant influence (ES≥0.5) on the relationship between stress symptoms and congregation demography (type and size). It was concluded that physical activity presented a salutogenic effect on psychological well-being among ministers and that congregation demography can influence physical and psycho-emotional health threats of Dutch Reformed ministers. Thesis (M.A. (Human Movement Science))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2005.

PhD (Biokinetika), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus THE INTERACTION OF SOME PHYSICAL, HEAL TH-, AND EMOTIONAL WELLNESS CONSTRUCTS OF MINISTERS OF RELIGION. Research amongst ministers showed that they are experiencing high levels of stress due to career demands and having to cope with problems on their own. (Hatcher & Underwood, 1990: 187; Virginia, 1998:50). This has a detrimental effect on their health (Sanford, 1982:2; Andrew, 1997: 15). Physical activity and maintaining a good level of physical fitness have positive effects on the blood lipid concentrations, glucose tolerance, blood pressure, immune system and psychological well being (Sandvik et al., 1993:533; Eichner et al., 1994:379). Longitudinal studies indicated that even by maintaining a moderate level of cardiovascular fitness, coronary heart disease and other illness that result in mortality can be decreased (Blair et al., 1989:2396; Blair et al., 1995:280; Blair et al., 1996:207). The objective of this study was firstly to determine the profiles of leisure-time physical activity, lifestyle, health status, coronary risk index, burnout and happiness of ministers of die Dutch reformed church in South Africa. Secondly to determine the effect of physical activity on the above mentioned parameters and thirdly to study the interaction of physical activity on the relationship between the above mentioned parameters. The subjects were 340 male ministers of the Dutch reformed church, who volunteered to participate in the study. The quality of participation in physical activity was determined with Sharkey's (1997:432) physical activity index. The lifestyle habits and health status were determined by using the Belloc and Breslow (1972:46) index and the illness rating scale of Wyler et al. (1968:363) respectively. The risk of developing coronary heart disease was determined by Bjornstrom and Alexiou's (1978:524-525) coronary risk index assessment. The status of burnout was determined by using the Pines Burnout inventory (1981) while happiness or quality of life was measured by using the Affectometer 2 of Kammann and Flett (1983). The mean index of physical activity participation was 35.76_±32.98 which could be classified as fair although 42.6% of the subjects fell in the low activity group. The coronary risk index showed that 46% of the population indicated a high risk of developing coronary artery disease, while 14.63% indicated a high level of burnout and 43.81 % a low level of happiness or quality of life. Despite this bleak view, the participants had a mean health status index of 216.65_±243.04 that can be classified as good, while 22.85% of the subjects can be classified as having a bad health status and 70.95% maintained a healthy lifestyle. Significant diffirences (p≤0.05) were found among the high activity and low activity group regarding lifestyle, health status, coronary risk index, burnout and happiness or quality of life. Physical activity also showed a positive interaction on the relationship of lifestyle and health status, coronary risk index and burnout as well as on the relationship of burnout on coronary risk index. This study indicated that the ministers of the Dutch Reformed Church who participated in this study operated in a danger zone regarding their physical activity and coronary risk index. However, they indicated a healthy lifestyle and good health index, thus suggesting that another factor like religion could play a role. The results warranted the recommendations that physical interventions are made to address the problem of a high coronary risk index, burnout and low level of happiness and quality of life. Doctoral

MA (Biokinetika), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus The physical activity index and smoking and the lipid profile of men (35-64 years) in a South African urban community 1. Problem and purpose of this research The modern lifestyle, including cigarette smoking and physical inactivity, is among the multiple contributors to the development of atherosclerosis and increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHO) (Leon, 1991 :46). Increasing total-cholesterol levels correlate with an increased risk of developing coronary heart disease. Coronary mortality has also been shown to vary inversely with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels (Waters, 1994: 1 ). Regular participation in aerobic-type activity increases high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (including apolipoprotein A) and is associated with a decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and TC/HDL-ratio (Wood & Stefanick, 1990:414-417). Indirectly, smoking enhances atherogenesis by reducing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and increasing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (Leon, 1995 :136). The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) with some selected blood lipids according to different age groups, as well as the influence of cigarette smoking on the above-mentioned relationships. 2. Method of research This study forms part of a community study of two SA cities, Vanderbijlpark and Witbank. Data were obtained from a stratified-systematic sample of 536 white male residents of the two industrialized communities (Witbank and Vanderbijlpark) between the ages of 35 and 64 years. The two age groupings in this study were as follows: 35-49 and 50-64 years. Before participating in any form of physical assessment a comprehensive medical/physical history and lifestyle questionnaire and an informed consent form was completed. The participants were subjected to a battery of tests, which included measurements of serum blood lipids, lipoproteins and apolipoproteins (apo Band apo A), body mass index and PWC170. Each subject was allocated to one of three LTPA categories (low, moderate and high). A one-way analysis of variance was used to ascertain any differences among the three levels of LTP A with respect to the dependent variables. No statistically significant differences regarding body mass were present between the low-, moderate- or high-active men, as well as between the active and inactive men in both age groups. Post hoc comparisons were done according to Tukey' s test. Practical significance was determined by means of effect size calculations (ES) (Thomas et al., 1991 :347). The active and inactive men were also subdivided into smokers and non-smokers according to both age groups (3 5-49 and 50-64 years) in order to investigate the possible influence of smoking on the influence of PA on selected blood lipids. Two-tailed t-tests were applied to determine the statistically significantly differences between the means of the respective groups (Thomas & Nelson, 1996: 148). Practical significance was determined by means of effect size, in instances where intergroup differences were statistically significant (p≤0.05) (Thomas et al., 1991 :347). The measurements were done in the following manner: Body mass index (BMI)(kg.nl). This was calculated by dividing body mass (kg) by height (m2 ) (Malina, 1995 :209; Pollock et al., 1995 :168). Serum blood lipids. Non-fasting blood samples were taken. Laboratory analyses consisted of total cholesterol concentration (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) and apolipoproteins (apo Al and apo B), as described by Vermaak et al. (1991 :368). Leisure-time physical activity index (LTPA index). The physical activity index suggested by Sharkey (1990:8; 1997:8) was used. In this regard, a physical activity index of 48 implies for example that a particular person who took part in leisure-time physical activity consisting oflonger than 3 0 minutes (duration= 4) of aerobic-type activities, three times per week (frequency = 4), experienced it as moderately heavy (intensity= 3). The LTPA index was based on a person's regular daily activity by multiplying each person's score for each category (score= intensity x duration x frequency) (Sharkey, 1990:8; 1997:8). 3. Results The following results were found: 3.1 The average LTPA index (both age groups) can be regarded as low (L TPA = ~ 16). The highest average LTP A index of 14. 67 was present in the 3 5-49 years age group with the lowest average LTPA index of9.93 in the 50-64 years age group. 3.2 The younger high-active men (35-49 years) showed a statistically significantly higher (favourable) HDL-C compared to the moderate- and low-active men in the same age group. The difference between the high-active and moderate-active men was also practically significant. 3.3 The moderate-active men showed a significantly and practically significantly higher HDLC in the 50-64 years men, compared to the moderate-active men (35-49 years). 3.4 The high-active men (35-49 years) showed a significantly and practically significantly lower TC/HDL-ratio compared to the moderate-active men (35-49 years). 3.5 It seems that an increase in physical activity could not evoke any statistically significant differences concerning TC, LDL-C, apo B and apo Al in both age groups (3 5-49; 50-64 years). 3.6 The active smokers (35-49 years) showed a statistically and practically significantly lower HDL-C when compared to the active non-smokers (35-49 years). It seems that some possible deleterious effects of smoking have a neutralising effect on the positive influence of an increased level of physical activity in the active smokers (35-49 years). It seems that smoking had a depressing effect on HDL-C in the younger men (35-49 years). 3. 7 The active non-smokers (3 5-49 years) showed a statistically significantly higher HDL-C when compared to the inactive non-smokers (35-49 years). It seems that an increased activity level may render protection against coronary heart disease (CHD) due to the significantly higher (favourable) HDL-C in the active men (35-49 years) compared to the inactive men in the same age group. This was not true for the men in the 50-64 years group, although the trend was similar to that of the younger men (35-49 years). 3.8 Smoking exerted no statistically significantly influences on TC, LDL-C and apo B in active and inactive men of both age groups (35-49 and 50-64 years). 3.9 The active non-smokers (35-49 and 50-64 years) showed a statistically significantly lower TC/HDL-ratio compared to the inactive non-smokers (35-49 and 50-64 years). It seems that an increased activity level has a favourable influence on TC/HDL-ratio as indicated in the active non-smokers of both age groups. 3.10 The active non-smokers (35-49 years) showed a statistically significantly higher apolipoprotein A compared to the inactive non-smokers (35-49 years). It seems that an increased activity level has a favourable influence on apo A as indicated in the active nonsmokers of the younger age group (35 -49 years). This was not true for the older age group (50-64 years), although the trend was similar to that of the younger men (35-49 years). Masters

Background We investigated the criterion validity of a physical activity index (PAI) derived from socio-demographic variables obtained from convenience samples of rural African women. Methods We used a sample (N = 206) from a larger dataset which surveyed adult rural Africans during 1997, and data collected during 2003/4 from 138 adult rural African women. A three-point PAI (low-, medium- and high-subsistence) was constructed from four socio-demographic questions related to electricity, cooking methods, water collection and availability of motorized transport. Criterion measures included measures of adiposity, blood biochemistry, resting blood pressure (RBP), physical fitness (VO2max) and single-plane accelerometry (ACC). Results Age, educational level and health status were not related to PAI level (p > 0.1). There was a significant negative, linear trend between the PAI level and adiposity level (p < 0.04), and fasting blood glucose concentration (p < 0.0001), while VO2max was positively related to PAI level (p = 0.0190). The PAI level was positively and linearly related to ACC output, namely counts.day-1 (p = 0.0044), steps.day-1 (p = 0.0265), min.day-1 of moderate-to-vigorous activity (p = 0.0040), and the percentage of subjects adhering to physical activity public health guidelines (p = 0.0157). Other criterion measures did not reach significance, but were in the expected direction (sedentary behaviour: p > 0.08, RBP: p > 0.07). Conclusion The PAI derived from a socio-demographic questionnaire is a valid instrument for broadly categorizing levels of physical activity for this specific population of rural African women. As the epidemiological transition progresses, validity will need to be re-established.