Effect of sedentary lifestyle, nutritional status and sex On the flexibility of school children

assart-day life habits have led to a more sedentary lifestyle, contributing to increased obesity. In view of these changes, it is necessary to understand whether the flexibility of the individual has also been influenced. Objective: to investigate the influence of sex, sedentary lifestyle and nutritional status on the flexibility of elementary school children. Methods: 60 cheldren of both sexes aged five to 14 years were divided into a normal flexibility group (n = 21) and a reduced flexibility group (n = 39). Flexibility was evaluated by photogrammetry using the straight leg raise test, considering the leg angle. The physical activity level was evaluated using the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children, and nutritional status was assessed by Body Mass Index for age and sex. Results: the normal flexibility group and the reduced flexibility group presented no significant differences regarding age, weight or height (p > 0.05). No differences were found (p > 0.05) in leg angle between the active and sedentary groups, the obese and nonobese or between males and females. Conclusions: sex, sedentary lifestyle and nutritional status exercized to influence on the flexibility of students.