Reasons for the practice of physical activity in adolescents depending on age and gender in the city of Cuenca-Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction: Currently, there is a large number of adolescents who do not do Physical Activity (PA), due to different circumstances, but at the same time there are factors that promote the acquisition of healthy habits such as regular exercise. Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the reasons for the practice of PA in adolescents based on age and gender in the city of Cuenca - Ecuador. Methodology: A non-experimental, descriptive research with a transversal scope was conducted with a sample of 135 adolescents (50 women, 85 men) from a private school, between 13 and 17 years old (14.63 ±1.3). To determine the reasons for practicing PA, the Self-Report of Reasons for the Practice of Physical Exercise (AMPEF) was used, in which a descriptive and correlational analysis of the once categories was conducted through Pearson's Chi Square statistic, using the SPSS Program version 25.0. Results: high average values ​​in the Prevention and Positive Health category in both men and women and low values ​​in the Health Emergencies category for the male gender and Competence in the female gender; as well as relationships between the Competition-Gender category, and Muscular Strength and Resistance-Age. Conclusions: Determining that there are slight differences between the reasons for practicing PA between men and women, as well as in the age ranges, due to changes in the physical and cognitive development of adolescents. General Area of Study: Physical Culture. Specific Area of Study: Physical Activity.