Physical Activity During Physical Education Lessons Among Omani Female Students: Levels and Correlates
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17309/tmfv.2026.5.15Keywords:
physical education, physical activity, accelerometry, physical fitness, body composition, female studentsAbstract
Objectives. This study aimed to examine physical activity levels and determinants throughout physical education (PE)lessons among Omani Cycle Two female students.
Materials and Methods. A cross-sectional descriptive-analytical design was employed with 190 Cycle Two female students in Muscat Governorate’s public schools, Oman. ActiGraph wGT3X-BT accelerometers were used to measure physical activity during PE lessons. Anthropometric measurements comprised body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage. Grip strength and 30-m sprint tested physical fitness. Data analysis used descriptive statistics, Spearman’s correlation, multiple linear regression, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) (p < .05).
Results. Participants accumulated 22.72 ± 5.40 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) on average,indicating high levels of health-enhancing physical activity. Sprint performance, vigorous physical activity (ρ = −.177, p = .015) and MVPA (ρ = −.168, p = .021) were significantly correlated, and independently predicted MVPA (β = −.234, p = .002). Grade level also independently predicted MVPA (β = −.331, p < .001), where Grade 6 students attained the highestMVPA level (p < .05). However, BMI, body fat percentage, and handgrip strength had no significant association with MVPA.
Conclusions. Cycle Two female students accumulated substantial MVPA in PE. The principal correlates of MVPA were sprint performance and grade level, contrasting body composition and handgrip strength. The findings encourage learner-centred, movement-oriented PE programs, suggesting PE curriculum development and physical activity enhancement among Omani schoolgirls.
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