Impact of socioeconomic level on the physical condition of schools: A motor gap

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyse the physical condition of students in the third cycle of Primary Education from various educational centres in the Province of Alicante, in relation to their socioeconomic level. The study sample was made up of a total of 240 students from the third cycle of Primary Education, specifically 136 boys and 104 girls, from various schools located in three different geographical environments in the province of Alicante (urban, rural, coastal). A correlational and descriptive study was carried out. To measure the socioeconomic level of the students, families completed the Social Class Questionnaire; Regarding the anthropometric and motor condition of the students, body composition, musculoskeletal capacity, aerobic capacity and motor capacity were evaluated, for which the ALPHA-Fitness battery was used. In addition, to measure the students' adherence to the Mediterranean diet and extracurricular sports activity, the students filled out the KIDMED and PAQ-C questionnaires (Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children) respectively. The results showed that the students in the study with a higher socioeconomic level have a better physical condition in terms of body composition, musculoskeletal capacity, aerobic capacity and motor capacity. Therefore, it is necessary to implement programs and activities that encourage the practice of physical activity and the acquisition of healthy habits, especially in the most disadvantaged areas.