Relationship between peak expiratory flow and the number of steps taken during recess in secondary school adolescents

Abstract

Objective: To correlate peak expiratory flow (PEF) with the number of steps taken during school break time in adolescents at a school in the city of Talca.

Methodology: A descriptive correlational study was conducted on 21 adolescents aged 13 to 15 years. Weight, height and the number of steps taken during a 15-minute school break were assessed. Maximum expiratory flow (MEF) (L/min) was assessed. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated.

Results: The average weight of the young people studied was 6.1±12.0 kg, their height was 165.2±6.5 cm, and their BMI was 22.5±4.2 kg/m2. In terms of correlations, a positive relationship was observed between MEF and the number of steps taken during a school break (r= 0.37, p<0.05), no relationship between BMI and the number of steps taken during a break (r= -0.010, p><0.05), and a negative relationship between BMI and FEM (r= -0.22, r<0.05). Conclusion: The results showed a negative relationship between FEM and physical activity levels during school recess, as well as with BMI. These findings suggest that as more steps are taken during school recess, PEF levels improve and BMI is lower. Therefore, physical activity during recess can offer advantages for improving respiratory health as well as body weight. Keywords: Peak expiratory flow, Recess, physical activity, schoolchildren> < 0,05).

Conclusion: The results showed a negative relationship between FEM and physical activity levels during school recess, as well as with BMI. These findings suggest that as more steps are taken during school recess, PEF levels improve and BMI is lower. Therefore, physical activity during recess can offer advantages for improving respiratory health as well as body weight.