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Self‐reported physical activity and sedentary behaviour amongst adolescents in Sweden vary depending on sex, age and parental education
Author(s) -
Fröberg Andreas,
Kjellenberg Karin,
Lindroos Anna Karin,
Nyberg Gisela
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
acta paediatrica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.772
H-Index - 115
eISSN - 1651-2227
pISSN - 0803-5253
DOI - 10.1111/apa.16077
Subject(s) - medicine , physical activity , screen time , leisure time , sedentary behavior , physical education , gerontology , demography , physical therapy , sociology , medical education
Aim The aim of this study was to investigate self‐reported physical activity and sedentary behaviour by sex, age and parental education in a large representative sample of Swedish adolescents. Methods This study is based on data from the national dietary survey Riksmaten Adolescents, which was conducted by the Swedish Food Agency in 2016–2017. In total, 3477 students from grade five (11–12 years), eight (14–15 years) and eleven (17–18 years) were included. A web questionnaire was used to collect information about physical activity and sedentary behaviour. Results In total, 53% reported active transport to and from school, 93% that they usually participate in the physical education, 76% reported a physically active leisure time, and 66% reported that they participated in organised physical activities. In addition, 12% and 6% reported two hours or less of screen time on weekdays and weekends, respectively. Participation in physical activity was generally lower amongst girls, older adolescents and for those from families with low‐parental education. Conclusion This study provide reference values for self‐reported physical activities and sedentary behaviours amongst adolescents in Sweden. Strategies to increase physical activity and reduce screen time are needed, particularly amongst girls, older adolescents and amongst those with low‐parental education.