BOUTOBZA NOUARI, ABDELDJELIL CHAHRAZED, BENYAMINA MOHAMMED MEHDI, AZZAM AHMED, SELLAMI ABDERRAHIM, BELABED ABDERRAHIM, GASMI ABDELMALEK
DOI: https://doi.org/This study aims to analyze the predictive role of physical activity levels in modifying anthropometric measurements and body composition among adolescents (11–15 years old) attending middle schools in the Constantine province of Algeria. The sample included 456 students of both sexes, classified according to their Body Mass Index (BMI) as: normal weight, overweight, or obese. The study relied on standardized measurements of weight, height, BMI, fat mass, and lean mass, in addition to assessing physical activity levels (NAP).
Results showed:
- A high prevalence of obesity (34.4%), overweight (28.5%), and normal weight (37.1%).
- Most students were physically inactive or had low activity levels.
- Strong inverse relationships were found between physical activity and BMI, fat mass, and weight.
- A direct relationship exists between physical activity and lean body mass.
Regression models showed that physical activity explains:
- 7% of the variance in lean body mass.
- 26% of the variance in fat mass.
- 20% of the variance in weight.
The results indicate the important protective role of physical activity and improving body composition in adolescents.
