The Effect of School-Based Physical Activity on Body Composition and Body Mass Index as Indicators of Obesity

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of school-based physical activity application on body composition and body mass index, which is an indicator of obesity. 10-12 year old female students were included in the study. A total of 86 female students from different classes of a school participated in the study. Random intervention group (46 students) and control group (40 students) were assigned to the study. In order to improve the physical activity in the schools, high intensity exercise was applied to the intervention group in the school yard under the supervision of physical education teachers with SBPA implementation 3 days a week for 40 minutes. Paired Samples T-Test analysis was used for pre-test post-test results and ANOVA was used to examine the differences between groups in repeated measurements. Height and weight of the students were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. School-based physical activity was used as an intervention to reduce obesity. Height and weight of the students were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Body fat percent (BFP) and body muscle percent (BMP) were evaluated using a bioimpedance analyzer at baseline and after intervention, taking into account the age and height of the students. School-based physical activity was used as an intervention to reduce obesity. As a result; It was found that a comprehensive school-based physical activity application reduced body fat percentage and BMI in obese girls, but these changes were not reflected in the body muscle percentage.