Physical activity by WHO recommendations for secondary school students in Ho Chi Minh City in the 2022-2023 school year and some related factors

Abstract

A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the proportion of physical activity (PA) among secondary school students in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) that meets the WHO recommendations and to identify related factors. The study subjects included 403 students from grades 6, 7, 8, and 9 at 3 public secondary schools in HCMC. The results revealed that more than 60% of the students achieved the recommended PA levels. Male students had 1.76 times higher likelihood of meeting the recommended PA levels compared to female students (p = 0.001). Students whose fathers regularly engaged in physical activity were 1.36 times more likely to meet the recommended PA levels (p<0.001). Similarly, students with mothers who regularly engaged in physical activity were 1.34 times more likely to achieve the recommended PA levels (p<0.001). Students who commuted by bicycle or walked had twice the likelihood of meeting the PA recommendations (p<0.05). Participation in sports events was associated with higher likelihood of meeting the PA recommendations (p<0.001). Furthermore, students who had companions for physical activity were 4.55 times more likely to meet the recommended levels (p = 0.001). Encouraging parents, relatives, and friends to participate in physical activities with students can create an environment that fosters an active and healthy lifestyle.