Self-esteem in physically active middle school students

The present research examined the effect of physical fitness on self-esteem of pre-adolescent children. Students performed the MOTORFIT tests and filled IPAQ-C and Self-Esteem questionnaires. According to the level of the physical fitness we evaluated the self-esteem. Results showed no gender differences, while differences for the level of physical fitness was found. In particular, participants who performed better the MOTORFIT test reported a higher self-esteem compared to less physical fit participants. However, a discrepancy emerged when the self-esteem was analysed as a function of the physical activity reported where no differences emerged between the groups. In conclusion, our results provided an effect of physical activity on self-esteem through objective measures. Key words: physical activity, pre-adolescent, psychosocial characteristics.