Body Mass Index and Sedentary Behaviour Affect Hamstring Extensibility in Primary Education Students

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Physical Education
• Sports Medicine
• Child Health

Background:

• Flexibility is vital for physical performance and coordination in primary school children.
• Hamstring flexibility is often reduced by physical inactivity and inversely related to Body Mass Index (BMI).

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between hamstring extensibility, physical inactivity, and overweight status in primary school students.
• To understand the impact of sedentary behavior on flexibility in children.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional descriptive study involving 265 primary school students.
• Utilized the Sit and Reach (SR) and Deep Trunk Flexion (DTF) tests to assess hamstring flexibility.
• Analyzed physical activity levels using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ).

Main Results:

• Average hamstring flexibility was -0.26 ± 6.33 in boys and 5.52 ± 6.46 in girls.
• Peak flexibility in girls was observed at 9-10 years, and in boys at 6-7 years.
• Children identified as physically active showed significantly higher results in both flexibility tests.

Conclusions:

• A sedentary lifestyle and high BMI are associated with suboptimal hamstring flexibility in primary school children.
• Promoting physical activity is crucial for enhancing and maintaining flexibility and overall physical condition in this age group.