Differentiation of physical activity of prison service officers according to job specialization

Abstract

Study aim. The proper physical activity of prison staff is an indispensable component of their professional work. The purpose of the study was to: identify the level of physical activity of offi cers employed in the security department – protective specialization and others – administrative specialization, and demonstrate differences in their: free time, self-evaluation of physical fi tness, number of performed sports disciplines and BMI. Material and methods. The study was carried out in 2015 among 100 employees of the Biała Podlaska Penitentiary using the long-standing IPAQ questionnaire supplemented with original questions regarding amount of free time, self-evaluation of physical fi tness, number of performed sports as well as height and body mass. Results. In the distinguished groups of prison service offi cers (protective and administrative specializations), the desired direction of differences in physical activity was demonstrated in the absence of their relevance. Similar relationships were found in other positive health and lifestyle indicators. In this range of differences, attention is given to high body mass index (BMI), especially in the administrative specialization. Conclusions. 1. The offi cers of both specializations are characterized by high levels of physical activity. 2. The small number of performed sports appears to be a less favourable fact. 3. The occurrence of obesity in administrators should be a signal to implement lifestyle changes, including greater concern for physical activity and nutrition.