Adolescents’ physical activity profile according to parental physical activity participation

Abstract

This study aimed to characterize adolescents' physical activity according to parental physical activity participation, in families where one or both of the parents were active or inactive. A total of 1037 adolescents aged 12-18 years, 1037 fathers and 1037 mothers participated in the study. Questionnaires were used to assess child and parents physical activity. Cluster analysis was used for data processing. Adolescents from families where both parents were inactive were characterized by physical inactivity. Adolescents of active parents practiced physical activity in several contexts. Adolescents with an active father and an inactive mother were characterized by the practice of unorganized physical activity. Finally, adolescents from active mothers and inactive fathers were characterized by the practice of organized physical activity. Two active parents enhance the potential influence on the child's adoption of physical activity as a spontaneous behaviour in leisure-time. Having one active parent (active role model) is better than two less active or sedentary parents.