Abstract

TELLERIA-ARAMBURU, Nerea et al. Influence of sport practice and physical exercise on anthropometric indicators and weight satisfaction in men university students: a pilot study. Nutr. Hosp. [online]. 2015, vol.31, n.3, pp.1225-1231. ISSN 1699-5198.  https://dx.doi.org/10.3305/nh.2015.31.3.8148.

Introduction: University students generally have low levels of physical activity, which could affect the body weight and composition and the knowledge and acceptance of their own body. Objective: To assess weight status and body composition, as well as self-perception and satisfaction with body weight in university students, and to analyze the influence of sport practice and physical exercise on these variables. Methods: A sample of 62 male students with a mean age of 20.7+/-1.7 years was evaluated. Sport practice and physical exercise in leisure time were analyzed by questionnaire. Weight status and body composition were assessed by anthropometry. Data about self-reported and desired weight and self-reported height were also registered. Measurements of actual, self-reported and desired weight were used to estimate self- perception and satisfaction with weight. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.0. Results: Overall 17.7% of participants had overweight and 6.5% underweight. The energy consumption due to sport practice and/or physical exercise was ≤ 3,000 kcal/ week in the 45.2% of the students and > 3,000 kcal/week in the 32.3%. Self-perception and satisfaction with weight was better in the group who practiced sport and/or physical exercise at the rate of ≤ 3.000 kcal/week than in those who did not practice any sport or exercise (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Regular practice of sport or physical exercise is associated with a better self-perception and satisfaction with body weight compared with a sedentary lifestyle. The university studies period should be used to promote sport practice and physical exercise, using the resources or assets of the University.

Keywords : Exercise; Sport; Anthropometry; Perception; Satisfaction.

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