Original scientific paper

Agon Saiti¹ , Bejtulla Emini¹ , Yllka Shabani¹ 

https://doi.org/10.46733/PESH2514123s

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to examine the possible differences in morphological and motor characteristics in 13-year-old girls, depending on the urban environment in which they attend school – central versus peripheral area of the city of Skopje. The research was conducted on a total sample of 81 girls (N=81), of which 43 attend schools in the central area and 38 in the peripheral area. In order to determine the differences, multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and univariate one-factor analysis (ANOVA) were applied, separately for the three groups of indicators: morphological measures, body composition and motor abilities. The results showed that in the morphological and body composition indicators (body height, weight, body mass index, skin folds, fat percentage, muscle mass and body water) there are no statistically significant differences between the groups, which points to similar socioeconomic and nutritional conditions for growth and development. On the other hand, in the area of motor abilities, statistically significant differences were registered in flexibility (sit and reach test), explosive strength (standing long jump) and agility (10 × 5 m test). The girls from the peripheral areas of the city showed better flexibility and agility, while the girls from the central area had higher results in explosive strength. These findings indicate that although the basic somatic and body composition status is not significantly modified by the spatial origin, motor skills are still sensitive to environmental factors. It is recommended that when planning interventions to improve physical activity and fitness among girls, urban specifics, access to sports infrastructure and the type of physical activity that is available and practiced in the different areas should be taken into account. Future research should also include objective measures of physical activity and socioeconomic factors to better understand the role of spatial origin in child development.

Key words: urban environment, physical development, girls

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