Independent and combined influence of physical fitness components on self-esteem in adolescents: DADOS study

Abstract

Background Self-esteem is a common indicator of psychological well-being, but its relationship with physical fitness components during adolescence is not fully understood. Aims The aims of this study were to analyse the association of physical fitness components (low vs. high) with self-esteem in adolescents, and to examine the combined influence of physical fitness on self-esteem. Subjects and methods A total of 225 participants (44% girls), aged 13.9 ± 0.3 years, from the DADOS (Deporte, ADOlescencia y Salud) study were included in the analyses. ALPHA-Fitness Test Battery was used to evaluate physical fitness components. The Spanish version of the Behaviour Assessment System for Children-3 questionnaire was used to assess self-esteem. Results Our results showed differences on self-esteem between groups of cardiorespiratory fitness (low = 49.51 ± 12.03 vs. high = 55.01 ± 4.46; p < 0.05) and upper limb muscular strength (low = 53.87 ± 7.38 vs. high = 54.29 ± 5.99; p < 0.05). Lower limb muscular strength and speed-agility groups did not show statistical differences. Significant differences on self-esteem were found when comparing adolescents with a physical fitness index of ≤1 vs. 4 (52.66 vs. 55.28; p < 0.05). Conclusion These findings suggest that cardiorespiratory fitness and upper limb muscular strength are positively related with self-esteem. Moreover, our results revealed a combined influence of physical fitness on the self-esteem of adolescents.

Keywords

• cardiorespiratory fitness
• muscular strength
• speed-agility
• self-esteem
• psychological well-being