The level and pattern of physical activity among fifth-grade students in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Objectives: Despite the benefits of physical activity (PA), a significant proportion of children do not meet physical activity guidelines (PAGs). However, most studies were among secondary-school–aged youth and relied on PA self-report. In addition, information regarding children's PA behaviors during specific segments of day/week is not usually collected. This study, therefore, investigated the level and pattern of PA among fifth-grade students in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Vietnam. Study design: A complex cross-sectional survey was conducted on a representative sample of 619 fifth-grade students in eight public schools in urban areas of HCMC in 2016. Methods: Demographic/anthropometric characteristics were measured using standard protocols. PA was measured using pedometers. After-school activities were measured using the Previous Day Physical Activity Recall questionnaire. Survey procedures with sampling weights were used for analyses. Results: Approximately 18% of children met the PAG; 52.7% were overweight (OW)/obese (OB). On average, students recorded about 8800 steps/day. Boys were more active than girls at school and on weekdays. Students were more active at school on physical education (PE) days vs non-PE days and weekdays vs weekends. OW/OB students were more active at school on PE days. After-school PAs differed between boys and girls, whereas sedentary activities were popular among both the genders. Conclusions: Most fifth-grade students had insufficient PA levels. Patterns of PA are different at various times during the day and week. The finding emphasized an urgent need for interventions to improve children's PA and obesity in this area.