Sport participation at age 9-10 in Malta

Abstract

The importance of sport and physical activity for our health is documented by various authors. The World Health Organization recommends that children engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate/intensity physical activity each day. This study investigates participation in physical activity and sport in Maltese 9-10 year olds both during and after school hours. Body Mass Index is also computed to classify children as overweight, obese or normal weight using Cole et al's cut-off points (2000). Five primary schools from different regions were selected at random and a total of 178 students (93 boys and 85 girls) were asked to fill in a questionnaire on their involvement in sport and physical activity. Results show a lack of physical education lessons (one or two lessons a week), and physical activity and sport after school hours (51% attend a local club). Moreover 44% of the participants were found to be overweight or obese. The most practiced sport with a club for boys is football (63%) and gymnastics (20%) for girls. The favorite sport boys wish to practice is basketball (14%) and horse riding (13%) for girls. Representatives from Associations responsible for the latter two sport were interviewed to see how they promote their sport. The present findings suggest that immediate action must be taken to increase participation. This challenge requires attention by various sectors such as schools, clubs and the local community who should plan a common strategy.