Objectively measured physical activity levels of children and adolescents in rural South Africa: high volume of physical activity at low intensity

Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2013 Jan;38(1):81-4. doi: 10.1139/apnm-2012-0115. Epub 2013 Jan 1.

Abstract

There is limited evidence on objectively measured physical activity from Africa. This study quantified physical activity by accelerometry in rural South African children at ages 7, 11, and 15 years. Total physical activity was generally high (mean accelerometer counts per minute ranged 485-1017 across the 3 groups), but moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity was low: <1% of the sample met international recommendations. A low intensity, high volume of physical activity is present in rural South African children and adolescents.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Accelerometry / methods
  • Accelerometry / statistics & numerical data
  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Exercise / physiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motor Activity / physiology*
  • Physical Exertion / physiology*
  • Rural Population / statistics & numerical data*
  • South Africa