Perceptions of Exercise in Obese School-Aged Children

Abstract

Study findings provided information giving a better understanding of exercise perceptions among obese children. Such may be used to assist obese children to increase exercise levels as part of efforts to improve health in this vulnerable population.

Assessment of obesity awareness stage of secondary school students

“…It was stated by Chu (2001) that although gender percentages in obesity rates stayed constant from 1980 to 1994, the trend and prevalence of obesity significantly increased in especially males and females older in age. In the study of Lee et al (2009) which was carried out on 11 students between 11-13 years old selected among 1714 people and composed of 5 open-ended question, it was indicated that information was supplied for obese children to understand the perception of exercises better and that exercises can be beneficial for them as a part for the development of their health. In the study of Allen (2011) performed with 123 7th class students, pre and post-program nutritional food, the importance of physical activity and obesity awareness were evaluated with an educational intervention.…”

School Based Nutrition and Exercise Program

“…In conclusion, it is evident that childhood obesity is an epidemic (Lee et al, 2009), one that cannot be solved overnight. Obesity is a multi-factorial problem requiring interventions in the area of dietary habits, physical activity, healthy lifestyle education, and parental involvement.…”

“…Over the past decade, childhood and adolescent overweight and obesity have been recognized in the United States (US) as a rapidly increasing, major pediatric health concern (Lee et al, 2009). Nearly one third of children nationwide are overweight (32%) or obese (16%), (Singh & Katz, 2010), and approximately nine million children over six years of age are considered obese (Klish, 2010).…”

“…Over the past decade, childhood and adolescent overweight and obesity have been recognized in the United States (US) as a rapidly increasing, major pediatric health concern (Lee, Lai, Chou, Chang, & Chang, 2009). Today in the US, the collective weight problem is linked to 300,000 deaths each year from illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease, and accounts for about 6% of direct health-related expenditure (Vital Sign, 201 0).…”

“…Low self-esteem can affect aspects of health and behavior including activity engagement. Children who are obese often feel they are not competent in physical activity (Lee et al, 2009). Childhood obesity cannot be linked to one cause and is most likely the result of nutritional, psychological, familial, physiological, and environmental factors and policies that influence eating and physical activity (Story, Kaphingst, O'Brien, & Glanz, 2007).…”