PERCEPTION OF ADOLESCENT GIRLS TOWARDS PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Adolescence is a crucial period of life, since dramatic physiological and psychological changes take place at this age. Likewise, lifestyle and healthy/ unhealthy behaviour are established during these years may influence adult behaviour and health status. Hence this study was taken to collect information on perception of adolescent girls towards physical activity with objectives such as To assess the perception of the adolescent girls with regard to physical activity, the attitude of the adolescent girls with regard to physical fitness and the physical activity level of the adolescent girls.

Survey method and questionnaire was the tool used. Sample consisting of 120 adolescent girls were selected through purposive random sampling technique. A Likert scale was used in the questionnaire to assess the perception on physical fitness, Barriers and benefits of physical activity among adolescent girls. The data revealed that higher percentage of the respondents fall under light active physical activity level. Most of the respondents had some barriers to engage in the physical activities.

Higher percent of the adolescent girls agreed that physical activity enhance concentration, sense of achievement, increased flexibility, self esteem, confidence and feeling physically good, stress relief and relaxation. Further 44.2 percent remained neutral for pride as a perceived benefit of physical activity.

Perception on physical fitness by adolescent girls varied from low to moderate.

Key words: Adolescent, Physical activity, Physical activity Level, Health

By. Mamatha, B

(Full article is published in Voice of Research-An International Journal)