The Relationship Between Physical Activity and Physical Health among High School Students in Yunnan Province, China

Abstract

Insufficient physical activity and declining physical health among high school students in China present significant challenges, exacerbated by academic pressures and limited time for exercise. This study examines the relationship between physical activity and physical health of high school students in Kunming, Yunnan, China. 120 senior high school students participated, wearing ActiGraph GT3X accelerometers for 7 days to monitor their physical activity during and outside of school hours. Results showed boys' MVPA during daily recess averaged 18.9 minutes and 15.2 minutes for girls, comprising over 70% of their daily physical activity, concentrated mainly during the main recess period. Regardless of weekends or school days, participants exhibited highest activity levels in the LPA state, with MVPA levels at 22.7 and 12.5 minutes. Physical fitness test scores ranged from 60-79 points and displayed a positive correlation between physical activity levels, body shape, physical fitness, physical function, and overall health indicators (p < 0.05), with high-intensity physical activity significantly linked to physical health (p < 0.01). This study provides insights to support initiatives aimed at enhancing the physical health of high school students and offers practical suggestions for future intervention programs.