Authors : Shepard Kugara; Tafadzwa Chibade

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 2 - February

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/5xex6t6h

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/5n8d5sp3

DOI : https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14915634

Abstract : The focus of the study was to determine the link between body composition, dietary practices and health related physical fitness between boys and girls and offer insights into prospective interventions and methods to increase physical activity and decrease sedentary behaviours among primary school students in the Northern Central District of Harare, Zimbabwe, by looking at these variables. The population of this study comprised of 55 participants, comprised of 32 boys and 23 aged between 11 and 13 years. The study used quantitative research method and data collection involved surveys and physical assessments to ensure a diverse representation of the district's population. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized to analyse the data, providing an overview of characteristics and investigating relationships, differences, and predictors within the dataset. The study found that girls had higher average BMI values than boys, suggesting differences in body composition or fat distribution. The American population in the school had the highest mean BMI, while African population had a lower mean BMI and less variability. Health-related fitness levels indicated potential concerns, with measurements exceeding standard measures. Dietary practices varied, with many students skipping breakfast or lunch. Skipping breakfast was associated with negative consequences. Excessive snack consumption interfered with appetite regulation and increased obesity. Higher BMI values were linked to lower physical fitness scores, indicating a negative relationship between body composition and physical fitness. The study recommends promoting awareness of gender-specific differences in body composition, implementing region-specific interventions, fostering healthy dietary practices, enhancing physical fitness programs, promoting cultural sensitivity, and encouraging collaboration between stakeholders.

Keywords : Body Composition, Dietary, Multicultural, Physical Fitness, Harare.

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