Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviors Trends Among Black High School Students, 2009-2019

Purpose: Physical inactivity and sedentary behaviors are key contributors to the rising rates of childhood obesity. Though many adolescents are aware of the benefits of exercise, youth in America are not sufficiently active. This study examined changes in physical activity (PA), physical education (PE), and sedentary behaviors among Black adolescents. Methods: Pooled data from Black high school students (n = 2,233) who completed the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) from 2009-2019 in Broward County, Florida, were analyzed. Logistic and linear regression models examined trends in selected physical activity indicators. Results: There were no significant changes in recommended physical activity levels (p = .829), daily physical activity (p = .44), PE class attendance (p = .054), or the average number of days of PA engagement (p = .304) for this time period. However, there was a significant decline in daily PE class attendance, the average number of days of PE attendance, and excessive television watching (p < .001). There were also increases in excessive video gaming and computer usage (p = .002). Conclusion: Adolescents' physical activity behaviors have not declined substantially over the past decade. However, sedentary behaviors, such as computer use and video gaming, have markedly increased. Results presented here should assist in broadening the understanding of Black adolescents' views on weight and physical activity and developing local programs and interventions to promote regular physical activity aimed at this population.