Cultural Differences in Physical Activity of Adolescents: Australia and Taiwan

This study explores the level of enjoyment and amount of physical activity of adolescents from two different cultures, Australia and Taiwan, replicating an earlier Australian study. A combined sample of 853 Australian and Taiwanese adolescent high-school students aged 15-16 years completed a questionnaire on physical activity. Australian students reported a higher level and enjoyment of physical activity, with boys scoring significantly higher than girls in both countries. Links between academic achievement and physical activity have been established by researchers within different cultures. These links require further research both in Australia and Taiwan in order to optimise the balance in adolescents' lives within their respective cultural frameworks.