The Effect of a Physical Activity Program on Some Anthropometric Characteristics in Children with Emotional and Behavioral Problems

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of physical activity on some anthropometric characteristics of children with emotional and behavioral disturbances. Sample consisted of 19 children (between 6,00-12,99 ages) from the child and adolescent psychiatry Unit of the Ege University Medical School. They participate in a twelve-week educative program including controlled PA (2 days a week, 60 min a day, aerobic exercises). Anthropometric data were collected before and after enrolling in the educative program by an accredited ISAK Level II anthropometrist following the ISAK manual (Marfell-Jones et al., 2006). Relaxed Arm (RAG), Contracted Arm (CAG), Waist (WG), Gluteal (GG) and Calf (CG) Girths, Triceps (Tsk), Subscapular (Sbsk), Biceps (Bsk), Iliac (Isk), Supraspinale (Ssk), Abdominal (Ask), Thigh (Thsk) and Calf (Csk) skinfolds, Humeral (HB) and Femoral (FB) breadths, body weight (W), stature (St), sitting height (Sh) and arm span (AS) (Restricted Profile) were measured and used to determine the sum of 8 skinfolds (S8), BMI and percentage of body fat (%BF)(2). Children were divided into two mixed groups according to the age and gender. Student T-test was run for comparing pre- and post- results and Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Tests were used for identify differences by gender and age groups setting always statistical significances at α=0.05. When general pre- and post- test data were compared, significant differences in W, St, Sh, AS, GG and CG were observed (p<0.05). Considering only the boys’ data, differences (p<0.05) were found for W, St, Sh, AS, Tsk and GG results, but in girls only for St, Sbsk, and CG. Finally, children under-10 significantly changed their W, St, Sh, AS, and CG measurements and children over-10 changed their St, Sh, AS, and GG. PA programs can lead to significant changes in some anthropometric characteristics of children with emotional and behavioral problems. Educative programs with PA contents can support their physical fitness levels and physical properties.

Keywords

• Children,Physical activity,body composition

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