Adolescent physical activity: role of the level of physical activity and parental social support

Abstract Background: Maximising the level of physical activity in adolescents has been a concern for many researchers given its multiple benefits for health. To verify the association between adolescents compliance with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and their parental or legal guardian social support (SS) and MVPA compliance. Methods: Cross-sectional study that selected 1390 (59.6% female) adolescents. The questionnaires IPAQ, QAFA and ASAFA were used. Results: In relation to boys, receiving incentives from parents who “assist always” (OR=1.96 – CI95%=1.16–3.32) and having parents/legal guardians who meet the MVPA recommendations (OR=2.78 – CI95%=1.76–4.38) was associated with meeting the MVPA recommendations. The probability increases when adjusted by socioeconomic status (OR=3.47 – CI95%=1.73–6.96) or education level (OR=4.20 – CI95%=1.96–9.02). Regarding girls, parents who “encourage sometimes” was associated negatively (OR=0.61 – CI95%=0.37–0.98) and meet the MVPA recommendations (OR=2.04 – CI95%=1.46–2.87) was associated positively with meeting the recommendations for adolescents. The likelihood raises when adjusted by socioeconomic status (OR=2.11 – CI95%=1.36–3.29) or education level (OR=4.30 – CI95%=2.41–7.69). Conclusions: Having parents who meet the physical activity recommendations demonstrated higher results in adolescents engaging 60 minutes of MVPA daily when compared to receiving social support, for both boys and girls.