The relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition and physical self-perception of adolescent girls

There is a universal concern about the rapid decline in the physical activity levels of children, particularly adolescent girls. There is evidence of an increase in juvenile obesity that is associated with numerous health risks. During adolescence the majority of psychological problems associated with obesity stem from a disturbance in self-concept. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between fitness, body composition, and physical self-perception of a sample of 167 adolescent girls (14-17 years old). The results show a significant positive relationship (r=0.47; p<0.01) between levels of cardiorespiratory fitness and physical self-perception, and significant negative relationships between percentage body fat and physical self-perception (r=-0.35; p<0.01), as well as body composition and cardiorespiratory fitness (r=-0.47; p<0.01). The results clearly illustrate the current prevalence of obesity associated with low cardiorespiratory fitness due to inactivity and low self-perception. The importance of being physically active for the physical and psychological well-being of adolescents is a valuable preventive and treatment measure.