Multifaktoriální výzkum zastavěného prostředí, aktivního životního stylu a tělesné kondice české mládeže: Design a metodika projektu

Background: Previous studies have confirmed the relationship between the built environment and the physical activity of the adult population. However, research to address this relationship in children and adolescents is limited. World-recognized patterns of behavioral change neglect physical fitness and do not sufficiently reflect the national and historical development of the population, as well as demographic, social and other specificities of the Central European region. Objective: The aim of the project “Multifactorial research of the built environment, active lifestyle and physical condition of Czech youth” was: a) finding of important determinants, correlates, mediators and moderators in the research triad environment – physically active lifestyle – physical fitness; b) Verification of Internet research techniques for self-assessment, registration and comprehensive diagnostics of adolescents’ active lifestyle. Methods: The research was conducted in adolescents from the 7th and 8th grades of elementary schools (13–14 years) and 1st and 2nd grades of secondary schools (15–16 years), followed by repetition after half a year in the spring (autumn) period. The protocol included procedures for data collection at individual level (structure and volume of physical activity using the INDARES questionnaire survey and the ActiGraph accelerometer/Yamax pedometer and fitness testing). The built environment and socioeconomic status were subjectively assessed using the IPEN Adolescent questionnaire and selected IPEN Adolescent specific files also using geographic information systems. Results: The results of this study provide valuable insights into lifestyle, physical fitness, and the built environment in which adolescents spend most of their time. Conclusions: The conclusions of the project serve as recommendations for school and community practice. Finding the role of specific aspects of the built environment in relation to adolescent physical activity is essential to support their active lifestyle.