African Journal for Physical Activity and Health Sciences

Swipe to sweat: The role of social media engagement and physical activity participation among students at a South African university

Chanté Johannes — 2024-12-12

The rapid increase in social media use is considered a potential contributing factor to sedentary lifestyles among university students, thereby limiting their ability to meet the World Health Organisation’s physical activity (PA) recommendations. However, research has produced conflicting evidence regarding the influence of social media on PA participation among the youth. This study explored the role of social media in PA participation among undergraduate students at a university in the Western Cape of South Africa. A qualitative approach using online, semi-structured interviews was employed with eighteen (n=18) undergraduate students. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Themes and subthemes were coded and generated via Atlas Ti. V8. Five themes emerged from the analysis: social media classifications, engagement time, advantages, disadvantages and student preferences for PA media content. The students used several social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for communication, education and staying connected. Media engagement levels varied, with some students spending up to 10 hours daily on these platforms. The students recognised numerous advantages of social media, such as efficient communication, access to information and motivation for PA participation. However, several drawbacks were acknowledged, including misinformation, unrealistic body standards, cyberbullying and addiction. In general, the students expressed preferences for social media content related to diet, muscle gain, PA and mental health, particularly favouring video-based formats for learning. Results highlight that social media could positively enhance PA levels through communication, information dissemination and motivation. However, to limit misinformation, unrealistic expectations, cyberbullying and addiction, it is recommended that universities offer students clear guidelines and advice on responsible social media use, with a focus on reliable, worthwhile and engaging PA information.

In-season weekly training load distribution in a South African Premier Soccer League team using GPS devices: A case study

Mduduzi M. Rhini — 2024-11-28

The monitoring of training load allows coaches to appropriately periodise training programmes by controlling and manipulating the intensity and volume of training sessions appropriately, without compromising recovery and tapering. This study aimed to quantify the in-season weekly training load of a South African Premier League male soccer team. Twenty-four outfield players (aged 25.5 ± 3.8 years), playing in the same team, were selected for data collection over 12 weeks during the 2019/2020 season, using PlayerTek GPS devices (10Hz). Weeks were categorised according to the number of training days before the match, i.e., five-day weeks, four-day weeks and three-day weeks. Training days were labelled based on the number of days before the match, i.e., match day (MD) minus the number of days. Data collected included total distance covered, high intensity running, power plays, top end-speed and distance per minute. Total distance (TD), high intensity running (HIR), power plays (PP) and distance per minute (DPM) readings were higher on MD-5 (p<.001) compared to the other training days during the five-day weeks. However, during the four-day weeks, the training load values were higher on MD-4 and MD-3 compared to MD-2 and MD-1. By contrast, during the three-day weeks, training load values were higher on MD-2 compared to MD-3 and MD-1. No significance difference was found in training load between starters and non-starters, or among various playing positions. The variation in training load reflects the intention to overload on the first day of the week and then to progressively underload from MD-2 and MD-1 to allow for tapering before the match. However, these findings also indicate little or no training consideration of positional differences, and non-starters.

Effectiveness of an intervention to improve anti-doping education knowledge among Botswana school sport coaches

Anthony Faros — 2024-12-12

This study aimed to examine the effects of an intervention workshop programme on the anti-doping content knowledge (AE-CK), pedagogical content knowledge (AE-PCK), and value contextual knowledge (AE-VCK) of Botswana school sports coaches. Using a pretest-posttest control group design, participants from sampled schools were randomly assigned to two conditions comprising an experimental group (n = 137) exposed to a 3-day anti-doping pedagogies workshop, and a control group (n = 87) that did not receive the intervention. Both groups were comparatively evaluated pre-test and post-test on their AE-CK, AE-PCK, and AE-VCK. Treatment intensity consisted of six hours of training sessions per day. Multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) yielded significant differences between the treatment and control groups’ AE-CK, AE-PCK, and AE-VCK after controlling for the covariates (pretest scores) [AE-CK (F _{(1, 219)} = 48.73; p < .0001; partial η2 = .18), AE-PCK (F _{(1, 219)} = 37.64; p < .0001; partial η2 = .15) and AE-VCK scores (F_{(1, 219)} = 33.13; p < .0001; partial η2 = .13]. This exploratory study raises critical questions about whether and how the science of effective instructional practices in traditional school subjects could be applied to the subject matter of anti-doping education. The study informs and enables strategic support for innovative anti-doping methodologies and instructional technologies across sporting cultures and structures as envisaged by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

The effectiveness of the ‘Move ASAP’ online exercise intervention during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: A focus on South African data from the multi-centre randomised controlled trial

A.K. Bhundoo — 2024-12-12

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic impacted health and well-being globally. South Africa, like other countries, had implemented movement restrictions starting from March 2020. These restrictions, as anticipated, decreased exercise uptake and consequently, physical activity (PA) levels. The ‘Move ASAP’ (Activity and health during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic) study was a global multicentred randomised controlled trial that evaluated the effectiveness of an 8-week trial (4 weeks of active intervention and 4 weeks of recorded sessions), with virtual exercise sessions provided by a professional fitness trainer. This report focuses on the findings of the trial in a South African context, about PA and exercise motivation before and after the 4-week active intervention. Moderate PA (MPA) and vigorous PA (VPA) were measured using the Nordic Physical Activity Questionnaire Short (NPAQ-Short) and the Self-Concordance Scale (SKK) was administered to determine exercise motivation. Results revealed decreases of 32.6% and 16.1% in MPA for the intervention (IG) and control (CG) groups, respectively. Between-group differences in MPA were not statistically significant (p=0.120). A 42.1% decrease in VPA in the IG and a threefold increase in VPA in the CG was noted (p=0.001). SKK scores increased by 13.1% (IG) and 16.9% (CG). Notably, a 52.1% dropout rate was recorded (IG: 55.3%; CG: 44.7%). Decreased PA levels in IG and CG may have been associated with the high dropout rates and the limited consideration of South African context-specific challenges. Online PA programmes need to be formulated with specific contexts and population nuances in mind. This is particularly relevant amid the backdrop of possible future pandemics or other emergencies.

Twenty-four-hour movement behaviours in the early years in Tanzania: SUNRISE pilot study

Jackline J. Nusurupia — 2024-12-12

During the early years, movement behaviours are important to health and development. Based on an international study of movement behaviours in early childhood (SUNRISE), this investigation examines the feasibility of the SUNRISE protocol in Tanzania and provides preliminary estimates of compliance with children’s guidelines on movement behaviours during the formative years. Physical activity (PA) was assessed using ActiGraph, while the other movement behaviours (screen time, restrained sitting, and sleep) were evaluated via parent questionnaire. The feasibility of the protocol was assessed with a total of 104 children aged 3–4-years-old based on the ability of the preschool staff, children, and their parents to implement the SUNRISE protocol under the researchers’ guidance. From a total of 95% eligible children enrolled in the study, 65% successfully undertook the accelerometer protocol, and 94% of parents completed the questionnaire. Findings on meeting WHO (2019) guidelines were as follows: total PA (85%), moderate- to vigorous-intensity PA (94%), sleep time (63%), sedentary screen time (43%), restrained sitting time (37%), and all guidelines combined (23%). Physical activity, sleep time, and restrained sitting time differed significantly between rural and urban children. The present findings support the feasibility of conducting the SUNRISE main study in Tanzania.

A cross-cultural study of physical activity during recess in Senegal and the United States

Charles H. Rodgers — 2024-12-12

The obesity rate in Sub-Saharan African countries is rising, while obesity-related behaviors among youth in these countries, including Senegal, are understudied. Cross-cultural comparisons of recess physical activity (PA) behaviors could provide context and insight into influences on PA. The purpose of this study was to investigate the PA levels and behaviors of children at recess in Senegal and make similar comparisons to children at recess in the U.S. A cross-cultural, mixed-methods study design compared detailed playground observations and device-measured PA during recess periods in four Senegalese and four U.S. elementary schools. Physical activity was measured during recess using waist-worn accelerometers, and detailed observations were recorded for data triangulation. A total of 187 students 1st through 5th graders (151 from US schools) wore accelerometers. During recess, Senegalese students were 19.7% more sedentary (p < .001, 95% CI [14.9, 24.5]) and engaged in 25.7% less moderate-to-vigorous PA (p < .001, 95% CI [-32.5, -8.0]) compared to U.S. children. Students in U.S. schools had higher PA levels compared to Senegalese school children. Differing physical environments and purposes of recess may contribute to varying levels of PA between countries.

Daily steps and fitness: A pedometer-based cross-sectional study of staff and students at a South African university

Valeska Roelofse — 2024-12-12

Walking has always been identified as an affordable and easily accessible mode of physical activity (PA) and is consequently recommended for promoting good health. Pedometers, typically measuring total steps/day, are regarded as a useful tool to motivate, measure and monitor ambulatory PA. There is, however, limited information on the association between volume and intensity of steps, with aerobic fitness, which was the main thrust of this study. A convenience sample (n=122; 32.5±13.6 years), recruited at a tertiary institution in Durban, South Africa, wore a pedometer for at least five consecutive days. Aerobic fitness was determined through the Harvard step test, culminating in a Physical Efficiency Index (PEI) as a fitness estimate. Steps/day data was sub-grouped according to volume/intensity-based categories aligned with steps/day recommendations. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to compare groups, adjusting for age, gender and total steps/day (for intensity-based steps analyses). A Bonferroni post-hoc test was applied to examine between group effects. More than half of the participants (54.1%; n=66) accumulated <5,000 steps/day, typically classified as sedentary, with over two-thirds (68%; n=83) amassing little/no intensity-based steps. The average total steps/day was 5,352±2. When categorised by total steps/day recommendations (i.e., <5,000, 5,000-7,499, 7,500-9,999, ≥10,000), no significant between-group effects were noted. In contrast, average intensity-based steps (i.e., <1,000 versus ≥1,000 intensity-based steps/day), yielded significant differences between the two groups for aerobic fitness, waist-hip-ratio (WHR) and waist circumference (WC) (p<0.001, respectively). Steps/day recommendations should, therefore, include the accumulation of intensity-based steps.

Are children in the Limpopo province of South Africa overweight and obese? A review

Mankopodi Mahlako Makhubedu — 2024-12-12

Overweight and obesity, defined as conditions in which body fat accumulates excessively in the body, that have arguably become a paediatric health concern in developing and developed countries. Overweight and obesity are associated with increased mortality, coronary heart disease, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, gallbladder disease, osteoarthritis and some cancers. This non-systematic review explores extant literature on the prevalence of overweight and obesity in children aged 0 – 19 years residing in Limpopo province, South Africa, for the past twenty-one years (2005-2022). The following databases were searched and used to undertake a narrative review of published literature on the theme: Google Scholar, Medline, PubMed and ScienceDirect. Recent studies have shown that the prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity in South Africa has increased and it is higher than the global average. Limpopo province, despite being rural, is not immune to the increase in childhood overweight and obesity. The consequence of childhood overweight and obesity is a recognised health risk for adults, despite that it manifests itself at a younger age. In spite of the increased prevalence of overweight and obesity among children in Limpopo province, few studies have been conducted, especially in rural and underprivileged communities in the country. As the prevalence of overweight and obesity in children residing in Limpopo province has been increasing in recent years, more needs to be done to promote a healthy lifestyle, such as increasing physical activity at a younger age. This could play a major role in mitigating the increase of overweight and obesity among children.

Exploring the use of nutritional supplementation and nutrition education in the chiropractic management of osteoarthritis amongst practising chiropractors in South Africa

Tiffany Grimett — 2024-12-12

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common form of arthritis causing chronic joint pain and stiffness. Chiropractors treat this condition, provide detailed treatment plans, nutritional counselling, and weight management advice to reduce pain and increase joint mobility. The aim of this study was to explore the use of nutritional supplementation and education in the management of osteoarthritis by selected chiropractors in South Africa. Using a qualitative exploratory design, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conduct with 12 registered chiropractors in South Africa via online platform. Practitioners were able to collaborate with other healthcare professionals to further improve patients’ health outcomes. The findings indicate the importance of nutrition education and supplementation, in conjunction with chiropractic care, for effective management of patients with OA. Patients showed greater improvement outcomes when the two modalities were combined. Therefore, it is necessary that not only chiropractors, but all healthcare professionals include the use of nutritional supplementation in their care and educate patients on the long-term effects and importance of nutrition for reduced symptoms to better manage their OA conditions.

Traditional classification of common diseases by Bapedi of Limpopo Province, South Africa

Sejabaledi A. Rankoana — 2024-12-12

Classification of diseases is imperative to understanding the types of illnesses prevalent within a community and determining the appropriate course of therapy required to effectively manage these conditions. The objective of this study was to provide a comprehensive description of the conventional disease classification systems employed by local communities that continue to prioritise traditional medicine for their basic healthcare needs. Semi-structured interviews with 103 participants provided data on the classification of diseases based on patient age and gender, aetiology, anatomy, natural occurrence, cultural specificity, infectious nature, and hereditary factors. These classification systems are different from the biomedical classifications of disease, which are based on the assessment and ramifications of human disease. A scholarly examination of the distinctions between traditional and biomedical disease classifications has the potential to enhance understanding of diseases, particularly their aetiology, and foster the development of more effective preventive strategies.

Seasonal variation in arm girth to height ratio as an alternative to body mass index of Ellisras rural children aged 5–15 Years: Ellisras Longitudinal Study

Nthabiseng Sarah Makari — 2024-12-12

Obesity has been a growing concern globally being the second greatest cause of mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to investigate the seasonal variation of arm girth to height as an alternative to body mass index (BMI) in Ellisras rural children aged 5–15 years. Anthropometric measurements were taken in 1986 (1034 boys and 952 girls) Ellisras children aged 5-15 years. Median values and frequency analysis determined the prevalence of obesity using BMI and arm girth to height ratio (AHtR). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the best predictor of obesity between BMI and AHtR. Girls aged 5–10 years had a median arm girth of 16.7 cm in spring compared to 16.5 cm in autumn. However, boys of the same age had no median seasonal variation in arm girth, height and weight. Girls aged 11–15 years had a median weight of 32.5 kg in spring and 28 kg in autumn. In addition, there was a significant median difference (p<0.05) in weight among girls and boys of the same age. The prevalence of obesity by arm girth in girls aged 5–10 was higher in autumn (5.0%) compared to spring (3.7%), and boys had a higher prevalence in spring (2.4%) than in autumn (2.2%). The overall prevalence of obesity was 5.1% when it was assessed by both BMI and AHtR for the cohort. Obesity assessed by BMI had 100% sensitivity and specificity in boys and girls, whereas when evaluated by AHtR it had a 90.2% sensitivity and 81.2% specificity in boys; 80.3% sensitivity and 83.1% specificity in girls (p < 0.05). There was seasonal variation in BMI and AHtR among the Ellisras rural children. This study showed BMI to be less affected by gender, but a better predictor of obesity than AHtR. However, AHtR could be used as an alternative tool to BMI in evaluating obesity in the children.

Service quality dimensions, customer satisfaction and behavioural intentions in recreational hubs: A scoping review

S.S. Khanyile — 2024-12-12

It has become essential in the recreational environment to understand the effect of service quality on customer loyalty and happiness. Therefore, considerable research has been done to understand the dimensions of service quality in relation to these outcomes. This scoping review examines extant literature on service quality across various recreational settings to identify key dimensions influencing customer satisfaction and behavioural intentions. Drawing on 17 studies spanning diverse geographical locations, including Australia, Greece, Malaysia, Portugal, South Africa, Sri Lanka and the United States, this review highlights the universal and context-specific aspects of service quality. By perusing qualitative and quantitative research across various settings, including university campuses, sports programmes and recreational facilities, this review identifies key tools and approaches used to evaluate service quality. Literature searches were conducted using three databases: Scopus, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar. Key findings revealed a significant impact of tangible and intangible service quality dimensions, such as facility conditions, staff interactions and programme outcomes, on enhancing customer experiences in recreational environments. Notably, the review underscores the importance of adapting service quality (SERVQUAL) measurements to the unique demands of recreational services, offering insights into improving customer satisfaction and loyalty. A synthesised understanding of the role of service quality in recreational settings is presented, suggesting directions for future research and practical implications for service providers who seek to elevate the recreational experience in various settings.

Erratum

Abel L. Toriola — 2024-12-12

No abstract