THE EFFECT OF FREQUENCY AND VOLUME OF LEISURE-TIME PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON BODY FATNESS OF EMPLOYED FEMALES

Abstract

Aim. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the selected body composition variables and frequency and volume of LTPA (Leisure time physical activity – F-LTPA and V-LTPA) in employed females; and which indicator of LTPA relates better to body composition. Moreover, it aimed to determine the differences between employed females who report different levels of LTPA. Materials and Methods. The sample of 535 employed females (19.8–45.3 years) were collected. Body height, body mass, body mass index, body fat mass, percent body fat, and body fat index were assessed via bioelectric impedance analyzer. International physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to assess F-LTPA and V-LTPA. Sample was divided in four groups relative to F-LTPA and V-LTPA: sedentary, seldom active, moderately active, and very active. Correlation analysis and analysis of variance were used to analyze the associations and differences between LTPA groups. Results. Small to moderate correlation occurred between body fatness measures and both LTPA modalities, with higher correlations being with V-LTPA. Females who reported higher F-LTPA and V-LTPA had lower amounts of BM, BFM, PBF, and BFMI than those who reported to lower values of LTPA. The biggest differences occurred in BFMI and PBF. Conclusion. Frequency of four to five LTPA sessions or 150–300 minutes per week may be needed for acceptable level of body fatness, while to attain fitness level of body fatness that is higher than just acceptable, females may need to be active even more frequently or more than 300 minutes per week.