ABSTRACT

Introduction: Physical activity is essential for maintaining health and preventing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Therefore, the im- portance of aerobic and anaerobic activities is empha- sized, especially in children. However, it is important to achieve optimal exercise, as excessive physical activity can lead to negative consequences for mental health.

Aim: To determine the frequency of physical activity in upper elementary school girls and boys during and out- side of physical education classes.

Materials and methods: The research was conducted with upper elementary school students using a standar- dized questionnaire to assess the level of physical activity PAQ-C (Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children). The questionnaire was available to students online via the Google Forms platform for two weeks.

Results: They showed that students most often engage in physical activities on Fridays and Saturdays, and least on Mondays, and that boys are significantly more active than girls (P = 0.001). They engage in physical activity 2 or more times a week, i.e. 65% of them engaged in some sport, dance or played some game in which they were very active from 2 to 6 or more times. 66% of them engaged in some sport from 2 to 6 or more times in the evening, and 77% engaged in some sport immediately after school. 50% of the respondents engaged in some type of physical activity every day.

Conclusion: The results indicate a high prevalence of physical inactivity among children. Recommendations for the future include designing and implementing pro- grams that would further motivate children to participa- te in physical activity.

Key words: boys, girls, physical activity, students