Is the physical activity environment surrounding primary schools associated with students' weight status, physical activity or active transport, in regional areas of Victoria, Australia? A cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

To explore whether the physical activity (PA) environment (walkability, greenspace and recreational facilities) surrounding regional primary schools is associated with children's PA levels, active transport and weight status. Limited research on this topic has been conducted outside of major cities.

Design

Cross-sectional ecological study using baseline data from two large-scale obesity prevention interventions.

Setting

Eighty (n=80) primary schools across two regional areas in Victoria, Australia.

Participants

Students aged 8-13 years (n=2144) attending participating primary schools.

Outcome measures

Measured weight status (body mass index z-score, proportion overweight/obese) and self-reported PA behaviours (meeting PA recommendations and ac

SUBMITTER: Jacobs J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8256746 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature