PHYSICAL FITNESS AND HEALTH BEHAVIORS OF 15-16-YEAR-OLD STUDENTS FROM WROCŁAW SCHOOLS

Background
The research aimed at examining the relationship between physical fitness (PF) and health behaviors (HB) in 15- and 16-year-olds, distinguishing between those with health-enhancing and health-risk behaviors. The results covered physical activity, sedentary behavior, diet, tobacco use, alcohol, and cannabis consumption.

Material and methods
The analysis included 636 students from 34 Wrocław schools, Poland. PF was measured using the International Physical Fitness Test (IPFT), a comprehensive assessment tool. HB were assessed with the standardized Health Behavior in School-aged Children questionnaire from a WHO study, used in cross-national research across Europe and North America.

Results
Adolescents with health-enhancing behaviors had higher levels of motor abilities: speed, strength (lower-limb, arm, abdominal, and hand muscles), and flexibility. Health-conscious girls scored better in speed, strength, and flexibility, while boys demonstrated greater strength (lower-limb, arm, and hand muscles) than peers with health-risk behaviors.

Conclusions
It is important to implement health-promoting behaviors in adolescents through the entire educational environment. The behaviors will ultimately become a key factor in supporting adolescents' PF.