Eating and Physical Activity Habits in Adolescents

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the eating and physical activity habits of adolescents, with the purpose of understanding eating practices and the degree of physical activity at this stage. Theoretical Framework: The line of research addressed in this study clearly presents the concepts related to dietary or nutritional habits and physical activity or exercise during adolescence, aiming to raise awareness and improve upon the results published in other research. To this end, it draws on several studies that have explored the same topic. Some of these studies include AVENA, CUENCA, ENKID, PERSEO, THAO, HELENA, EVASYON, SHAPE UP, ALADINO, ALPHA, and PREFIT. Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises a descriptive, cross-sectional (ex-post-facto) design. A non-probabilistic, purposive sampling method was used to select the 127 adolescents (13 ± 0.95 years old), who were distributed into 6 groups. The main variables under study were: nutritional score, physical activity score, nutritional level (low, medium, or high), and physical activity level (poor, fair, and good). The Krece-Plus questionnaire (α = 0.81) was used as the measurement instrument. The Test was administered in person in the classroom during each group's assigned Physical Education class. SPSS 30.0 was used for statistical analysis of the data. A descriptive, comparative, and correlational analysis was performed, with a significance level of p ≤ 0.050. Results and Discussion: The results show that boys scored higher than girls in both nutrition and physical activity. Some variability was observed between the groups in nutrition and physical activity scores. In all cases, it is necessary to improve their eating habits and increase their physical activity. Regarding nutrition and physical activity levels, a moderate level of nutrition and regular physical activity predominated among the adolescents. These results support findings from other studies. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research can be applied to or influence the field of physical activity and health. These implications could encompass the different stages of adolescence through the subject of Physical Education. Originality/Value: This study provides a baseline for future intervention programs to prevent obesity and overweight in adolescents, based on the importance of healthy eating habits and physical activity. Understanding and analyzing adolescents' healthy lifestyle habits will allow for the planning of interventions tailored to different contexts in the future.