Physical activity and exercise participation among Malaysian children (able-bodied vs. physical disability): A cross-sectional study

• Main Author: Mat Rosly, Maziah
• Format: Article
• Published: MDPI 2022
• Subjects: RA0421 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive Medicine; RJ Pediatrics
• Online Access: http://eprints.um.edu.my/42241/
• Institution: Universiti Malaya

Globally, physical activity levels (PAL) among able-bodied and children with a form of disability remain low. This study aims to characterize PAL and identify the demographic variables affecting children from partaking exercises to promote active lifestyles. Methods: The Physical Activity Scale for Individuals with Physical Disabilities questionnaire was used for the study. A total of 140 data responses were collected online or physically via passive snowball recruitment and quantitatively analyzed. Results: Five factors were extracted from the dimensions, consisting of household chores, household maintenance, high intensity exercise training, miscellaneous activities and school-related activities. Able-bodied children were significantly (p = 0.000) more active (median = 15.05, IQR = 13.06) than children with physical disabilities (median = 3.09, IQR = 2.58). The B40 household group reported significantly (p < 0.05, MET < 5.16/week) lower participation in health-beneficial (moderate-vigorous intensity) exercises as recommended by international guidelines. Conclusion: Children with physical disabilities reported significantly lower education achievements and PAL compared to their able-bodied counterpart. The majority of Malaysian children (69.3%) surveyed did not achieve the recommended aerobic exercise prescription.